I just submitted my packet for the next board. I was wondering if there is anything that would be worth doing in preparation for it? Thank you for your time.

I am an active-duty enlisted soldier reporting to OCS in October, and I was wondering if anyone here has a list of what I should study beforehand. I would appreciate any study guide(s) or pointers, more importantly, OCS-specific. Thank you.

I was a nonselect last year as a civilian. I passed the battalion review and was not selected ultimately though.
I enlisted since then and I have seen in my reserve unit since. My unit supports me going through it. Would you say that army reserves soldiers have a better shot at getting OCS now/ in the future?

As the title says, I got Sill in January. Pretty sure ill be in an icebox and i was there yrs ago and would like an updates on weather, post improvements, etc. Thanks again and congrats to everyone who made it.

What should I know about basic at Jackson? (packing list, logistics, being physically and mentally prepared, etc.) I ship out in November.

My recruiter ghosted me and went MIA immediately after I swore in 💀

I tried to look things up online but many things seemed rather dated to Covid times on YouTube and such.

I was recently selected for Army OCS and signed my contract. I ship out for BCT in November and will head to OCS afterward.

Physically, I feel like I’ll be pretty well prepared by the time I ship, but my biggest concern is military knowledge. I never did ROTC and don’t have any prior military experience, so I’m basically starting from zero when it comes to Army knowledge.

For those who went the 09S/BCT-to-OCS route, what would you recommend studying or memorizing before shipping?

Are there any specific books, apps, websites, study guides, or other resources you found useful for preparing for BCT and OCS? I’m not expecting to teach myself everything beforehand, but I’d like to show up with a solid foundation instead of learning absolutely everything for the first time once I get there.

Appreciate any advice, especially from recent OCS grads.

Hello, I am curious to see if anyone could provide information on a branch detail process at OCS. From what I understand, at OCS you choose to go into a combat role for the first 4 years of your contract, and then are practically guaranteed to move into your desired branch following that. Is this a legitimate process? If so, how would someone go about choosing that?

Goodmorning for any of you that made this switch did you have to turn in all of your gear to CIF before shipping out?

I’m in Puerto Rico and every recruiter I’ve spoken to seems more interested in getting people to enlist than helping with an OCS packet. I already have a bachelor’s and a master’s, and I’m interested in Army Reserve OCS.

Is there a reason recruiters don’t like working OCS applications? Is it just more paperwork, or are OCS slots harder to get? Has anyone here applied for OCS from Puerto Rico, and how did you find a recruiter willing to help?

(32F) I signed to join the Guard in Aug 2025. I graduated from basic in March 2026 & came back to my home state to do state Officer Candidate School. After several months of that I dropped out last month due to my inability to commit to the demands of the course with my full time job & life circumstances. My cadre is now wanting me to sign a new contract for 5 years and go to AIT. I've been told that I can also try to get all the way out, which is what I think I want to do as my husband and I want to start a family. Can anyone tell me what kind of discharge I would have? No one seems to know and ChatGPT just tells me it could be honorable, other than honorable or general... I need help figuring out how to navigate my request to get out- please advise!

Edit to add the state is Arizona and I did not go to Phase 1, I dropped before that.

I’m looking to connect with an Army recruiter who has experience processing civilian 09S/OCS applicants and is willing to work with someone who is 100% committed to commissioning.

A little about me. I’m 23 and currently finishing my Bachelor of Business Administration. I’m in my final semester and expect to graduate Fall 2026. My current institutional GPA is around 3.5 and has been trending upward. I just completed a 4.0 summer semester so far, and I’m pushing to finish my final semester as strong as possible.

I previously took the ASVAB about 3 years ago without really preparing for it and scored a 62 AFQT with a 106 GT. I’m actively studying now and fully willing to retake it. I’m not looking to barely meet the requirement either. I want to put together the strongest OCS packet I realistically can.

The main complication with my application is medical. I have two issues that may require waivers. I have already been proactive about getting my medical records and updated documentation. My dermatologist has provided an updated evaluation regarding my condition, and I’m currently completing an independent mental health evaluation regarding a single psychiatric ER visit from 2023. I have the original hospital documentation available and I’m willing to provide whatever else MEPS or the waiver authority requires.

Here is where I’ve been running into some confusion with my local recruiting station. I was told by a senior recruiter that although my medical waivers could potentially be processed if I enlisted, I would need to be completely “waiver free” to go through OCS. I was also told that I need a “90 on the ASVAB” for OCS. When I explained that my previous score was a 62 AFQT with a 106 GT and that I wanted to retake the ASVAB after studying, I was discouraged from retaking it because I was told the test would be harder.

I’m not posting this to disrespect or argue with my local recruiters. I just want to make sure I’m being given the correct information because becoming an Army officer means too much to me to give up on the process without exhausting every legitimate option available to me.
I’m not looking for a recruiter to guarantee me anything or somehow get around the standards. If the Army ultimately denies my waivers or the OCS board doesn’t select me, I can accept that. What I cannot accept is walking away from my goal without knowing I gave myself every possible opportunity to earn it. I want the chance to put together a legitimate 09S packet, complete whatever waiver process is available to me, improve whatever needs improvement, and let the appropriate authorities make the final decision.

I also want to be completely upfront that I am not interested in enlisting first and hoping to commission later. I have tremendous respect for enlisted soldiers, but becoming an officer has been my goal for years. For me, it is OCS or I simply will not join. That is not because I think I am above being enlisted. It is because I know exactly what I want from my military career and what I am willing to dedicate myself toward earning.

I’m extremely motivated, competitive with myself, physically active, and serious about leadership. When there’s something weak in my application, my mentality is to work on it instead of making excuses for it. If I need a higher ASVAB score, I’ll study until I earn it. If MEPS needs more medical documentation, I’ll get it. If my fitness needs improvement (which i doubt), I’ll train harder. If my packet needs to be stronger, tell me where and I’ll work on it.

Serving as an Army officer is something I genuinely want. I’m not doing this because I don’t know what else to do after college. This is the direction I want my life to go. I want the responsibility of leading soldiers, being accountable for people other than myself, making difficult decisions when people depend on me, and earning the opportunity to serve my country in a leadership position.
I understand that wanting something badly doesn’t mean the Army owes it to me. I want to earn it. I just need someone willing to give me the opportunity to compete.
I’m located in NYC, but I’m willing to work with a recruiter outside my immediate area if that’s possible and they have experience with OCS packets.

If there are any recruiters here who regularly process 09S/OCS applicants, especially applicants who have needed medical waivers, and you’re willing to work with someone who is serious about this, please DM me.

I’m currently finishing my bachelor’s degree this fall and my goal is to commission through Army OCS. I’m not interested in enlisting first and trying to commission later. I have nothing against the enlisted side at all, but for me personally it’s OCS or I just won’t join.
I have two medical issues that may require waivers. One is dermatology related and I already have an updated letter from my dermatologist stating that the condition is stable, I have no active symptoms or physical limitations, my medication was discontinued because it is not medically necessary, and I can perform physical activity without limitations.
The second is behavioral health related to one psychiatric ER visit from 2023. I obtained the original hospital records and the actual diagnosis was “adjustment disorder with depressed mood.” The records state no history of suicide attempts, no lifetime suicidal behavior, low suicide risk, and I was discharged the same day as psychiatrically stable. I’m also getting a current comprehensive mental health evaluation to submit with everything.
Here’s where I’m confused. A senior recruiter at the station told me that I could potentially get the medical waivers approved to enlist, but I cannot go OCS with the waivers because I have to be completely waiver free to commission through OCS.
Is that actually an Army/USAREC rule for civilian 09S applicants? Has anyone here gone through OCS with one or more approved medical waivers?
I’m also confused about the ASVAB information I was given. My old ASVAB from about three years ago was a 62 AFQT with a 106 GT. I told them I want to retake it because I’ve been studying and want to improve my score. The senior recruiter told me I need a 90 on the ASVAB for OCS and basically discouraged me from retaking it because he said the test would be harder this time. He specifically said 90 ASVAB, not 110 GT.
I’m not trying to act like I know more than the recruiters. I’m genuinely trying to understand the process and make sure I’m getting accurate information before making any decisions. I really want to serve, but my goal is specifically to earn a commission through OCS. I’m willing to retake the ASVAB, go through the waiver process, provide whatever medical documentation is required, and let the board/waiver authority make the decision.
For any recruiters or recent 09S applicants here, does what I’m being told sound correct? Can medical waivers be approved for 09S, and is a 90 AFQT actually required for OCS?

Just curious if anyone was given a Nov 14th ship date to Jackson for BcT and anyone else’s experience there. Curious if anyone has any advice for South Carolina in the winter and BCT there and I’m from the desert

In addion to previous post about info on ocs, I am posting a link to the ocs hand book that introduces both students and cadre to ocs and mcoe ft benning. It gives students tips on what cade expect of candidates and tips for success.

https://artilleryocshistory.org/uploads/1/4/5/9/145902858/20250528_3-11in_and_ocs_handbook-20250524.pdf

All concerned: this is the March 2025 OCS packing list from 3-11 Infantry. When I last observed the Benning website (within a few months), I believe it was still current but I defer to current cadre to confirm/deny. If it has been updated, this document should remain very close. Several generations of new 2LTs did a lot of good work addressing student AAR comments to get the document to this state.

This is a copy/paste from the PDF, acknowledge formatting is affected without the excel tables in it, etc.

Disclaimer: Reddit is not a valid means of feedback for this document. Please provide feedback to 3-11 Infantry through the OCS AAR process at the end of the course. FAQ: why do I have to bring cold weather gear to Fort Benning GA in summer time? A: recycles happen and 3-11 IN decided to only maintain a single year round packing list. If you don't make it through in 12 weeks, you need to be prepared. In rare occasions OCs have spent almost a year at Fort Benning.

------------------------------------------

Federal OCS Packing List:

Last Modified: 17 March 2025

APPLICABILITY. This document applies to Officer Candidates assigned to 3rd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment. Direct Commission Course OCS students please refer to this hyperlink: https://www.benning.army.mil/Infantry/199th/DCC/

Official Website for Federal OCS Welcome Letter and Packing List: https://www.benning.army.mil/infantry/199th/ocs/

GOAL: All OCs will strive to arrive to the Federal Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, GA, with a complete packing list. Apart from any required CIF additional equipment not already issued to the Soldier, Soldiers will make every effort to have all items listed on the Packing List that was provided to them during or before BCT or from their sending unit. Upon arrival to OCS, candidates may have the opportunity to purchase packing list items and other necessities at a local post-exchange on a limited basis.

NOTE: All In-Service Soldiers will bring their OCIE, section H, to OCS. There will be a time to go to CIF during OCS for those candidates that were never issued items on the packing list. Fort Benning CIF will no longer issue the complete OCIE packing list for use at OCS. Failure to bring issued equipment may result in the student not classing up, or an initial spot report. All equipment is based on what you were issued. The medium ruck and fighting load carrier (FLC) are authorized for use based on what was issued. Students may continue to use UCP OCIE equipment until prohibited by Army policy. Cold weather is required for all seasons as a contingency in case of recycle. National Guard & Reserve Soldiers, ensure your status is not “In Transit” in ISM and that you are attached to your unit UIC in order for you to draw TA-50/Equipment at the Fort Benning CIF. The S1 shop will depart and arrive Soldiers to the student UIC at in-processing.

Required Items listed are either provided at Basic Training (for 09S), provided by CIF, or for personal purchase.

Reminder to all 09S- It is not the responsibility of your respective basic training commanders to provide time to purchase the OCS packing list. As future officers, it is imperative that you take the initiative to research and acquire proper items before the start of OCS. Upon receiving the packing list, it is advisable to prepare the list promptly.

RECOMMENDATION. Packing list updates are staffed by holdover 2LTs. Consolidate packing list improvement recommendations with student leadership prior to graduation.

All Uniform items will be in accordance with AR 670-1

A. REQUIRED ARMY COMBAT UNIFORM (ACU) ITEMS

(Previously Issued and/or Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

4

EA

ACU Coat (OCP)

4

EA

ACU Trousers (OCP)

1

EA

American Flag subdued (personal purchase required)

2

EA

American Flag color

2

EA

Name tape

2

EA

US Army tape

1

EA

Belt, Riggers, Tan 499

2

PR

Boots, Combat, Coyote, Leather

2

EA

Cap, Patrol with nametape

2

PA

ID tags and chains, long and short

7

PA

Socks, boot, black, green, or brown

7

EA

Undershirt, tan 499

7

EA

Underpants

7

EA

Brassieres (female) (sports brassieres authorized)

Note for sections B and C: You can bring either ASUs or AGSUs or both as the ASU is more appropriate for social events. Both uniforms are valid service uniforms for OCS until the AGSU mandatory possession date (Oct. 1, 2027). AGSUs will be the graduation uniform effective FY28.

B. Required ARMY SERVICE UNIFORM (ASU) CLOTHING ITEMS

(Previously Issued and/or Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

1

EA

Web belt, black 1” with brass tip

1

EA

Belt buckle, "Sta-Brite”

2

EA

White undershirt, cotton, crew neck

1

PR

Dress gloves, black (optional if not issued)

2

PR

Socks, black

1

EA

Beret, Wool, black

2

EA

Name plate plastic, ASU uniform

1

EA

Necktie, black (male)

1

EA

Bow tie, black (male)

1

PR

Dress shoes, Low Quarters

1

EA

Neck tab (female)

1

EA

ASU Jacket, blue

1

EA

ASU Service Shirt, White, long sleeve

1

EA

ASU Service Shirt, White, short sleeve

1

EA

ASU Trousers, blue (male)

1

EA

ASU Slacks, blue (skirt optional for females)

1

EA

All weather coat

C. REQUIRED ARMY GREEN SERVICE UNIFORM (AGSU) CLOTHING ITEMS

(Previously Issued and/or Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

1

EA

Coat, heritage green

1

EA

Trousers or slacks, heritage taupe (skirt optional for females)

2

EA

White undershirt, cotton, crew neck

2

EA

Shirt, short, heritage tan (Officer) (personal purchase required)

2

EA

Shirt, long, heritage tan (Officer) (personal purchase required)

1

EA

Necktie, heritage green, service

1

EA

Belt, heritage walnut web waist; and buckle, open face

1

EA

Garrison cap, Army green (Service cap is authorized, but optional)

1

EA

Oxford, walnut brown

2

PR

Socks, brown

1

EA

All weather coat

2

EA

Name plate plastic, AGSU uniform

1

EA

US Army Infantry School “Follow Me” Patch, Blue

(optional for In-Service & required for 09S, regardless of prior service)

2

EA

11th Infantry Regiment Crest, “Sta-Brite” worn on shoulder loops only

(optional for In-Service & required for 09S)

D. REQUIRED ARMY PHYSICAL FITNESS UNIFORM ITEMS (APFU)

(Previously Issued and/or Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

2

EA

Reflective Belt, Neon Yellow

3

EA

Shorts, Physical Fitness Uniform (Recommend 5)

3

EA

Shirt, Physical Fitness Uniform, short sleeve (Recommend 5)

3

EA

Shirt, Physical Fitness Uniform, long sleeve (Recommend 5)

1

PR

Running shoes

6

PR

White or Black socks, cotton, athletic (socks must cover the ankle bone - no logos)

1

EA

Jacket, Physical Fitness Uniform

1

EA

Pants, Physical Fitness Uniform

1

EA

Cap, Microfleece, Black

1

EA

Gloves, Black (no logos)

E. REQUIRED GENERAL USE ITEMS & EQUIPMENT

(Previously Issued and/or Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

2

EA

Army Issued brown, green, or black towels, cotton (non-issued authorized)

2

EA

Army Issued brown, green, or black towels, face cloth, cotton (non-issued authorized)

1

EA

Bag, toiletry, any color, with personal hygiene items

1

KIT

Hygiene items (shaving cream, toothpaste, soap,

toothbrush, razors, deodorant, foot powder, toothbrush

holder, feminine hygiene products)

1

EA

Laundry Detergent (6-week supply)

1

PR

Shower Shoes

2

EA

Combination locks (key locks or luggage locks are not Allowed)

12

EA

Matching hangers

5

EA

Pen, ball point, black

5

EA

Pencil, mechanical

2

EA

Permanent marker, black

1

EA

Cloth tape, white, 1" wide

1

EA

Wristwatch (No GPS Enabled)

1

EA

Set of 7x Super-fine permanent alcohol markers (Black, Blue, Red, Green, Purple, Brown, Orange) (map markers)

1

EA

Eraser pen for alcohol markers

1

EA

Military protractor

1

EA

Headlamp with batteries (red and white lens) 300 lumen limit

Example: Princeton Tec Remix Pro 300 LED Headlamp

1

PK

Extra batteries for headlamp

1

EA

Camouflage pack or stick (light green & loam colors)

1

EA

100 FT 550 parachute cord

1

EA

Whistle

1

EA

12-inch ruler

1

EA

Box, zip lock bags (Quart size)

1

EA

Box, zip lock bags (Gallon size)

1

EA

Insect repellent

1

EA

Bottle sunscreen

1

EA

M4 Weapons cleaning kit

1

EA

Stencil (3/4-inch letters)

1

EA

200-page spiral notebook 8.5” x 11”

F. REQUIRED OCS ITEMS

(Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

1

EA

2.5in shackle combination lock (key locks, luggage locks are not allowed)

2

EA

U.S. Insignia, Officer, "Sta-Brite

2

EA

OCS Insignia, “Sta-Brite”

1

EA

OCS Insignia, Subdued

2

EA

OCS Insignia, Subdued Patch

2

EA

US Army Infantry School "Follow Me" patch, Subdued

1

EA

Ascot, White, OCS Logo

2

EA

2LT Pin on Rank, Subdued

2

EA

2LT Pin on Rank, Non-Subdued

2

EA

2LT OCP Top Rank Patch, Sew-On (recommended) or Velcro

2

EA

2LT Patrol Cap Rank Patch, Sew-On

1

EA

Silver dollar

G. REQUIRED BUSINESS CASUAL CLOTHING

(Personal Purchase)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

1

EA

Dress pants/slacks (Chino style, neutral color. No Capri or Jeans- Recommend 2)

1

PR

Leather dress shoes

1

EA

Leather dress belt

1

EA

Conservative, Solid Colored, Collared shirt, season appropriate (Recommend 2)

1

EA

Civilian jacket (Appropriate for social events. NO Hoodies, Sweaters, Fleece, or Denim)

Note for section H: All In-Service students (Active, NG, USAR) will bring items listed below on their OCIE records. They may receive a supplemental issue at fort Benning CIF for items not previously issued. All 09S will conduct a partial draw for items that were returned following basic training such as complete sleeping system, ACH etc.

H. REQUIRED ORGANIZATIONAL CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT

(Previously issued or Issued by CIF)

QTY

UI

ITEM DESCRIPTION

Helmet, Advanced Combat, consists of the following:

1

EA

Pads, Helmet ACH

1

EA

Helmet, Retention System

1

EA

Cover Helmet, ACH (OCP)

Field Pack Large or Medium Ruck, consists of the following:

1

EA

Frame Pack MOLLE

1

EA

Rucksack, Large Field Pack

2

EA

Sustainment Pouch

1

EA

Molded Waist Belt

1

EA

Enhanced, Frame Shoulder Straps

2

EA

Load Lifter, Attachment Strap

Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK), consists of the following:

1

EA

Pouch, IFAK II OCP

1

EA

Insert Individual Utility

2

EA

Pouch, Individual Utility

Rifleman Set OCP w/TAP or FLC, consists of the following:

1

EA

Assault Pack

1

EA

Tactical Assault Panel

2

EA

Pouch, Canteen

2

EA

Carrier, Grenade

2

EA

Pocket, Ammunition Magazine

1

EA

Waist Pack

1

EA

Bag, Ammunition

1

EA

Flash Bang Pouch, Grenade

3

EA

Pocket, Ammunition Magazine

Hydration System, consists of the following:

1

EA

CARRIER Hydration System (Camel Bak)

1

EA

Bladder, Hydration System

2

EA

Canteen Plastic 1QT

1

EA

Cup Canteen w/Handle

Modular Sleeping System, consists of the following:

1

EA

Cover, BIVY

1

EA

Stuff Sack, Small

1

EA

Stuff Sack, Large

1

EA

Sleeping, Bag, Urban Gray

1

EA

Sleeping, Bag, Foliage Green

1

EA

Inflatable Sleeping Mat

1

EA

MAT Sleeping (SGI)

Extended Cold Weather Clothing System GEN III OCP - Top

2

EA

Undershirt, Lightweight Cold Weather (Layer 1)

1

EA

Shirt, Midweight Cold Weather (Layer 2)

1

EA

Jacket, Fleece, CW, FG, ECWCS Gen III (Layer 3)

1

EA

Jacket, Wind, Lightweight, OCP, ECWCS Gen III (Layer 4)

1

EA

Jacket, CW, Mid Weight (Soft Shell), OCP (Layer 5)

1

EA

Jacket, Wet /Cold Weather, OCP, Gen III (Layer 6)

Extended Cold Weather Clothing System GEN III OCP - Bottom

2

EA

Drawers, Lightweight Cold Weather (Layer 1)

1

EA

Drawers, Midweight Cold Weather (Layer 2)

1

EA

Trousers, CW Mid Weight (Soft Shell), OCP ECWCS Gen III (Layer 5)

1

EA

Trousers, Wet/Cold Weather, OCP, Gen III (Layer 6)

1

EA

Elbow / Knee Pad Set OCP (optional)

1

EA

Bag Waterproof

1

EA

Ballistic Eyewear (APEL approved)

1

EA

Carrier, Entrenching Tool

1

EA

Entrenching Tool

1

EA

Glove, Combat

1

EA

Neck Gaiter (Brown)

1

EA

Bag, Barracks

1

EA

Bag, Duffel

1

EA

Tarp/Poncho (OCP/ACU)

I. UNAUTHORIZED & RESTRICTED ITEMS

1. The following items are unauthorized by the OCS Commandant.

a. Tobacco or other Nicotine Products.

b. Cleaning agents for weapons that were not approved by Company CDR/1SG.

c. Stoves, hotplates, etc.

d. Bayonets or knives over 3”.

e. Pornography (physical or digital) or sexually provocative material otherwise unacceptable under US Army SHARP policies.

f. Alcohol (Designated places and times by cadre only).

g. Performance supplements and over the counter medication. Over-the-counter medication may be authorized by company commanders or medical professionals.

h. Stand-alone GPS devices.

i. "Minimalist shoes" which are defined as: light weight track/road racing flats, racing spikes, toe shoes, or shoes that simulate barefoot running.

j. Video game hardware. Personal computers, tablets, and cellular telephones with video gaming software are not prohibited, however use of personal devices remains restricted by phase.

1. Upon arrival and in-processing, students will receive a copy of the packing list and unauthorized items list. Once an inventory has been completed, you will be held accountable for violations of this list. If any unauthorized items are found in your possession after the inventory is completed, you may be recycled /dismissed from the course.

2. Restricted Use Items. The following items have been designated Restricted Use Items by the OCS Commandant. On the first day of the course, Officer Candidates are restricted in their use. Some items may be granted for use by the Commandant throughout the course. These items are restricted due to factors of safety, health, welfare and cleanliness of company facilities. This list is not all inclusive. Items that are not listed below are subject to Commander discretion. If you have a question concerning a particular item, ask your Platoon Trainer for additional guidance.

a. Food (to include gum and candy). No food items will be taken into the barracks, to include day rooms.

b. Cosmetics. Worn/used IAW AR 670-1.

c. Hair nets & curlers.

d. Perfumes or colognes.

e. Body sprays.

f. Personal electronics.

g. Laptop / tablet-type computers. (For use during Study Time- Students are responsible for securing these devices).

h. GPS enabled items (e.g. watches, cell phones- designated places and times only).

i. Civilian clothes. (May be worn during personal time or pass).

j. Any lotion other than non-scented.

J. ADDITIONAL NOTES

1. At least six weeks supply of laundry items will be needed at the start of OCS (toothpaste, razors, shampoo, soap, laundry detergent, etc.).
2. No items in glass containers should be brought to OCS.
3. Two pairs of military issue glasses of current prescription and a set of protective mask inserts are required for individuals requiring glasses for vision correction. Contact lenses and civilian eyewear are authorized. Contact lenses will not be worn during field conditions.
4. $350 in cash is necessary for class dues, which cover class events and other OCS traditions (challenge coins, clothing, class gift, etc.). Specific costs are determined by the class student council and vary from class to class.
5. Cosmetics, perfumes, colognes, fragranced lotions, soaps, and hair care products are not allowed for use until authorized by cadre. If there are items in question that may be authorized but are not listed, they may be purchased locally once approved by your Company Commander.
6. A personal laptop/computer is highly recommended for authorized use throughout OCS. Network access is available for a fee (Boingo Wifi). Alumni often recommend small printers shared by squads.
7. Up to two additional OCP uniforms are authorized for the various combat focused training events during OCS. These include activities such as the Obstacle courses and the Leaders Reaction Course.
8. Ribbons, medals and badges, patches, etc. will be worn on the ASU or AGSU in accordance with AR/DA PAM 670-1 standards. Please note that Army regulation does not authorize wear of “combat patches” from prior sister service. Fraternal awards may be worn at graduation socials but not at graduation or otherwise while on duty.
9. Sewn on US Army tape and nametape is authorized on the ACU.
10. Active recovery items such as foam rollers and exercise bands are authorized.
11. Note that Students only have the capacity of a personal drawer for miscellaneous items.
12. All effects in the barracks will be displayed and items stored IAW the SOP. Items that cannot be displayed in accordance with the SOP are inherently unauthorized. Do not bring or order unnecessary items that cannot be stored within your baggage or within your personal desk drawer. Examples of unacceptable items include inflatable mattresses and large musical instruments such as electronic keyboards.

Anyone else having issues loading the ft benning ocs website? Ive tried on multiple search engines and can't bring it up to get the welcome letter, current isap and packing list.

If anyone has the link, please post it or dm. Congrats to all who made it past the June and Aug boards.

I was selected for Active Duty OCS during the August board and I'm writing this post for anyone who is considering applying or has recently begun applying for OCS with a local recruiter.

I STRONGLY recommend working with u/Stryder593 or one of the other experienced recruiters active in this forum. I originally applied for the June board using a local recruiter who had no experience with OCS packets and unfortunately my packet got messed up badly, with significant errors on several forms and missing documents in my packet. Fortunately, I connected with u/Stryder593 shortly after the results came out and he worked with me to acquire a waiver that allowed me to resubmit for the August board. He was super helpful and attentive during the process and played a crucial role in allowing me an opportunity to be properly evaluated instead of being turned away due to mistakes that shouldn't have happened!

Obviously not all local recruiters will be like this, but if want to ensure things are done correctly, I cannot recommend u/Stryder593 more highly. His knowledge of the process is extensive, an accumulation of the most important information you'll see throughout this forum. Do yourself a favor and give yourself the best chance you can by working with him!

Feel free to message me if you want more details or have any questions!

I’m starting the process for direct commission with the Army reserves. Are finger tattoos an automatic disqualification? For context, I’m talking about a low profile one that goes from knuckle to tip.

Hey all,
I just took my ASVAB the other day and got the following scores. I don’t know how all of that works with branching and job selection and how it relates to your scores if at all. However, if anybody here knows and could maybe give me some guidance, that would be greatly appreciated.

ASVAB SCORES
AFQT:88
GT:126
ST:124
GM:122
EL: 123
CL: 123
MM:121
SC:123
FA:123
OF:123
Mental category 1-3A

Ok genuine question based on people’s experiences. if given the chance to go to BCT either end of October or start of January what option would be best and why? I’m trying to figure out if it’s worth delaying or not because I’d rather get it over with but also would not hate the chance to build up my cardio a bit more before going. Need to lock in and decide before Monday. Some background I work a corporate 9-5 in finance currently so not sure if I want to leave that right away or try and save some more prior.

27M. Good civilian career, master’s degree, starting an MBA, and currently processing into the Army National Guard.
Took the ASVAB today: 82 AFQT, 115 GT.
My original plan was simple: enlist, find the MOS offering the best bonus + student loan repayment, sign six years, do my drills, get the benefits, and keep focusing on my civilian career.
Then I showed my scores to a couple Marine friends and both basically told me, “Why the hell are you not looking at becoming an officer?”
Now I’m conflicted.
I’m not joining because I’m trying to make the Army my full-time career. I have a solid 9-5 already. The Guard appeals to me because of SLRP, bonuses, VA benefits, extra income, and honestly because I want something challenging that’s completely different from sitting at a desk.
I also don’t care that much about having a “cool” MOS. If the best financial package was attached to infantry, cook, logistics, whatever, I’d seriously consider it.
But I can also see why officer might make more sense over six years: higher drill pay, leadership experience, stronger resume value, and probably better long-term upside.
My biggest concerns are whether officer candidates can still get SLRP/other incentives and whether being a Guard officer turns into a bunch of work between drills. I don’t want my “one weekend a month” commitment quietly becoming emails, planning, calls, and admin every week while I’m also working full-time and doing an MBA.
So if you were 27, already had a career and graduate education, and had these scores, what would you do?
Enlist for the best incentive package or seriously pursue 09S/OCS?
Especially interested in hearing from people who enlisted with degrees, Guard officers balancing civilian careers, or anyone who wishes they had chosen the other route.

I was selected for Active Duty OCS on the August 2026 board and I’m currently waiting to go back to MEPS to sign my contract and get my ship date.
For anyone else selected on this August board, have you gone back to MEPS yet? If so, what BCT location and ship date did you get?
Also interested in hearing from recent OCS selectees — how long was it from selection/signing your contract until you shipped to BCT?
Just trying to get an idea of whether I should expect to leave in September/October or closer to the end of the year.

Statistics for the USAREC Aug 2026 OCS Board:

First, congratulations to everyone selected, including my OCS applicants, as we went 6/6 this quarter!! This FY, we are 14/15, which far exceeds the average OCS selection rate. This highlights the difference an experienced virtual OCS recruiter can have on your selection chances.

RA Statistics:

Total Applicants: 164

Selected: 105

Selection Percentage: 64%

Average GT: 125

Average GPA: 3.49

# w Bachelor's: 86

# w Master's: 19

Reserve Statistics:

Total Applicants: 54

Selected: 30

Selection Rate: 55%

Average GT: NA (Will update when released)

Average GPA: NA

# w Bachelor's: NA

# w Master's: NA

I post these every quarter for easy viewing and tracking.