Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is Army ROTC?
A. Army ROTC is a college elective you can take for
up to two years with no obligation. Unlike traditional college programs, Army
ROTC gives you a wide range of experiences while you work toward your degree.
You’ll combine classroom time with hands-on training, learning and leadership
skills that are sure to give you an edge over your peers when it comes time for
job interviews and presenting yourself in a professional manner. Whether you’re
planning a career in the Army or the corporate world, you will gain the
necessary leadership skills and personal confidence to succeed in whichever path
you take.
Q. By enrolling in ROTC, are you joining the Army?
A. No. Students who enroll in ROTC don't join the Army.
They take our ROTC classes for which they receive credit. It's considered a
college elective at the University of Idaho. During the first two years, ROTC
cadets have no military obligation.
Q. Is ROTC like "boot camp"?
A. No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn
their degree.
Q. What can students major in while going through ROTC?
A. Students can major in any degree that is approved by the
ROTC and school curriculum.
Q. What makes ROTC different from regular college management
courses?
A. Students in ROTC learn through a unique program that
involves both classroom and "live" situations. For instance, an ROTC cadet
might be found leading classmates through adventure training, down a river in a
raft, or being in charge of a lab or a training exercise.
Q. What is the ROTC course comprised of?
A. The ROTC program is divided into phases: The Basic
Course (first two years) studies Army history, organization, structure, land
navigation, small unit tactics, and developing self confidence. The techniques
and principles of leadership and management are stressed throughout. The
Advanced Course (last two years) concentrates on tactical operations and
military instruction, as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership,
and command.
Q. Does Army ROTC offer scholarships?
A. Yes. Each year students compete for 4 year
scholarships nationally and 2/3 year scholarships on campus. We award them to
students studying science, engineering, nursing, business, as well as a variety
of other majors.
Q. How much money does ROTC usually award and what does the money go
towards?
A. Our scholarships
are awarded at different monetary levels. They will cover tuition (in/out of
state) and educational fees. It also gives you $600 a year for books and you
receive a monthly stipend while you are in school that varies from $250 - $400,
depending on where you are at in the program. The scholarship doesn’t cover
room and board. For more information please click here (scholarship link).
Q. On what basis are scholarship winners chosen?
A. Our ROTC scholarships are not based on financial need.
Instead, we award them on merit. Merit is exhibited in academic achievement and
extracurricular activities, such as sports, student government or part-time
work.
Q. Can only scholarship winners enroll in ROTC?
A. No. Anyone can enroll in our ROTC program. And
regardless of whether you're a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books,
supplies and equipment are furnished at no cost to you.
Q. How often are Army ROTC scholarships awarded?
A. We award scholarships once a year. High school
students apply by November 15th and selections are made continuously
thru May 15th. On campus students can apply for two-year and three-year
scholarships until May 1st.
Q. How do students benefit from Army ROTC?
A. In college and after graduation, cadets find that the
training and experience that they have received are assets - whether pursuing an
Army or civilian career. Civilian employers place high regard on the management
and leadership skills that our ROTC instructors stress. Plus, ROTC looks great
on a resume. When cadets complete the ROTC course, upon graduation, they become
commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.
Q. Do you have to go on active duty (full time) when you graduate and
commission from college?
A. Most cadets choose to go on active duty upon graduation. Almost
all students who are on scholarship will go on active duty. There are two year
scholarships that will guarantee you a commission in the Reserves or National
Guard. They are known as Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty Scholarships.
Even if you are not on scholarship, you can still choose to go into the
Reserves/NG at the beginning of your junior year.
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