Six Recommendations to Build a Strong Application for OCS
Applicant Question
I plan on applying for next year’s OCS summer course. I have contacted an OSO and he’s been helpful.
I have a 3.2 GPA, I haven’t done a PFT (not sure when to do that yet) and I am a part of various organizations on my campus in which I have been involved with leadership.
I want to make sure that I will get accepted and want to know that my application will not raise questions.
What do I need to do to get a yes for my USMC OCS application?
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(Credit: U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)[/caption]
Answer
If you already have a high level of physical fitness, you’re on the right track. For more specifics, here’s our advice:
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- Start running PFTs immediately. Just test yourself (with strict pullup form) if your OSO does not offer them weekly.
- Work to develop yourself more as a leader and get some leadership roles on your resume.
- Keep building that relationship with your OSO like your career depends on it.
- Don’t get any tattoos or in any legal trouble.
- Network with Marines and research the Marine Corps as much as possible.
- Start contacting possible recommendation-writers well ahead of time.
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Time to get to work! Good luck. Let us know how it goes and keep in touch if you have any more questions.
