If I graduate from West Point, what Army rank do I start at, and how does that compare to starting after other commissioning programs like ROTC? I'm weighing my options and trying to understand the career path.
When you graduate from West Point, you commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. This is the same starting rank as officers who commission through other programs, such as ROTC or Officer Candidate School (OCS). In each case, you'll start at the O-1 pay grade.
After commissioning, progression through the ranks takes into account a combination of your performance, time in service, and positions held. The first promotion from second lieutenant to first lieutenant (O-2) usually happens after about 18 months of service. From there, you can work your way up to captain (O-3) within another 2 years with continued exemplary performance.
Remember, while rank is important, each commissioning path provides different experiences and skills. West Point is a four-year military academy that combines military training with undergraduate education. ROTC allows you to study at a broader range of colleges and balance military training with a more traditional college experience. OCS is a short, intensive program for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree.
Every path has its pros and cons, so consider factors beyond rank, such as education, environment, lifestyle, and personal goals.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.