Become a U.S. Marine Infantry Officer by following these 5 critical steps. Learn how to meet eligibility requirements, navigate Officer Candidates School, and master leadership skills. Discover the path to earning the esteemed title of Marine Infantry Officer, requiring dedication, resilience, and tactical expertise in combat, logistics, and strategic operations.
The U.S. Marine Corps is one of the most prestigious and respected branches of the military, and becoming a U.S. Marine Infantry Officer is a challenging and esteemed career goal. As an Infantry Officer, you will be responsible for leading Marines in combat and making critical decisions that can affect the outcome of a battle. If you are considering a career as a U.S. Marine Infantry Officer, here are the five steps to help you achieve your goal.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become a U.S. Marine Infantry Officer, you must meet certain basic requirements. You must be a U.S. citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 28, and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and score a minimum of 1000 on the SAT or 45 on the ACT. Additionally, you must pass a physical fitness test and meet the Marine Corps' body fat percentage requirements.
Physical Fitness Test Requirements
- 3-mile run in 28 minutes or less
- 44 or more sit-ups in 2 minutes
- 3 or more pull-ups
- 45 or more crunches in 2 minutes
Step 2: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
To become a U.S. Marine Infantry Officer, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The Marine Corps does not have specific degree requirements, but most Infantry Officers have a degree in a field such as history, international relations, or a STEM field.
Recommended Majors for Infantry Officers
- History
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Engineering
- Computer Science
Step 3: Attend Officer Candidates School (OCS)
Officer Candidates School (OCS) is the Marine Corps' commissioning program for officers. OCS is a 10-week course that teaches you the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Marine Officer. During OCS, you will learn about leadership, tactics, and Marine Corps history and culture.
OCS Phases
- Phase 1: Leadership and academics
- Phase 2: Tactical training and field exercises
- Phase 3: Final evaluation and commissioning
Step 4: Attend The Basic School (TBS)
The Basic School (TBS) is the Marine Corps' training program for new officers. TBS is a 6-month course that teaches you the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Marine Infantry Officer. During TBS, you will learn about tactics, combat skills, and leadership.
TBS Phases
- Phase 1: Leadership and academics
- Phase 2: Tactical training and field exercises
- Phase 3: Final evaluation and certification
Step 5: Complete Infantry Officer Course (IOC)
The Infantry Officer Course (IOC) is the Marine Corps' training program for Infantry Officers. IOC is a 9-week course that teaches you the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Marine Infantry Officer. During IOC, you will learn about combat skills, tactics, and leadership.
IOC Phases
- Phase 1: Combat skills and tactics
- Phase 2: Leadership and command
- Phase 3: Final evaluation and certification
U.S. Marine Infantry Officer Image Gallery
Now that you have completed the five steps to becoming a U.S. Marine Infantry Officer, you are ready to embark on a challenging and rewarding career. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and always put the needs of your fellow Marines first. Good luck!