Coast Guard Officer Candidate School Guide

Becoming a Coast Guard officer is a challenging and rewarding career goal that requires dedication, hard work, and a strong sense of leadership. One of the most critical steps in achieving this goal is attending the Coast Guard Officer Candidate School (OCS). In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the OCS process, including the requirements, application process, and what to expect during training.

What is Officer Candidate School?

Officer Candidate School is a 17-week training program designed to prepare candidates for a commission as a Coast Guard officer. The program is held at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, and is attended by candidates from all over the country. The primary goal of OCS is to develop the leadership, tactical, and technical skills necessary to succeed as a Coast Guard officer.

Requirements for OCS

To be eligible for OCS, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Be a U.S. citizen
Be between the ages of 17 and 28 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
Have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
Pass a physical fitness test
Meet medical standards
Have no felony convictions
Be willing to serve on active duty for at least three years

Application Process

The application process for OCS typically begins 12-18 months before the desired start date. Candidates must submit an application package that includes:

A completed application form
Official transcripts
Letters of recommendation
A personal statement
A medical examination

What to Expect During Training

The OCS program is divided into three phases: academics, leadership, and tactical training.

Academics: Candidates will attend classes on subjects such as leadership, ethics, and Coast Guard history.
Leadership: Candidates will participate in leadership exercises and simulations to develop their leadership skills.
Tactical Training: Candidates will receive training on Coast Guard tactics, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and marine safety.

Life at OCS

Life at OCS is challenging and demanding. Candidates will be expected to maintain a high level of physical fitness, participate in leadership exercises, and complete academic coursework.

Daily Routine: Candidates will wake up at 0500 hours for morning exercise, followed by breakfast and academic classes.
Physical Training: Candidates will participate in physical training exercises, including running, swimming, and weightlifting.
Leadership Exercises: Candidates will participate in leadership exercises, including simulations and scenario-based training.

Graduation and Commissioning

Upon completion of the OCS program, candidates will be commissioned as ensigns in the Coast Guard. The commissioning ceremony is a significant milestone in the career of a Coast Guard officer, marking the transition from candidate to commissioned officer.

Post-Commissioning

After commissioning, new officers will attend additional training, including:

Basic Officer Training: New officers will attend basic officer training, which covers subjects such as leadership, ethics, and Coast Guard history.
A-School: New officers will attend A-School, which provides specialized training in their assigned rating.

Conclusion

Becoming a Coast Guard officer requires dedication, hard work, and a strong sense of leadership. The Coast Guard Officer Candidate School is a critical step in achieving this goal, providing candidates with the leadership, tactical, and technical skills necessary to succeed as a Coast Guard officer. By understanding the requirements, application process, and what to expect during training, candidates can prepare themselves for the challenges and rewards of a career as a Coast Guard officer.

Gallery of Coast Guard Officer Candidate School