How do I become a pilot in the military reserves?

I'm really interested in aviation and wondering what the pathway looks like to become a pilot in the military reserves. What requirements are there and how competitive is it? Is there a clear track for someone like me who's in high school?

The path to become a pilot in the military reserves can be quite demanding, but it's certainly achievable with the right preparation and dedication.

First and foremost, you'll need to complete your high school education. Respective branches of the military have different academic requirements, so you need to check the specifics of the reserves you intend to join. However, maintaining a good GPA, especially in mathematics, physics, and English, will be beneficial.

After high school, it's common for aspiring military pilots to pursue a 4-year bachelor's degree. While there isn't a specific degree required, majors in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or other physical sciences could potentially give you an edge. This is not a hard and fast requirement, but it can be favorable during selection for pilot training.

Once you've obtained your degree, if you meet the age, health, vision and fitness requirements, you can directly apply for Officer Candidate School (OCS), sometimes referred to as Officer Training School (OTS), where you'll receive leadership training. Please note that each branch of the military has its own version and requirement for this training.

After successful completion of OCS/OTS, you can apply for flight school. Preparing for competitive selection into military flight training often begins in college. For instance, the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC), a college program, provides leadership training and aerospace courses, after which you could be commissioned as an Air Force officer.

You should also consider obtaining a private pilot's license prior to applying for military flight training, as it can make you more competitive. This isn't a requirement but it demonstrates your commitment to aviation and gives you a familiarity with aircraft, which is beneficial for the selection process.

Pilot training in the military is highly demanding and rigorous, where you'll learn everything from basic flight skills to tactical maneuvers specific to the aircraft you're assigned.

Finally, once you've completed flight school, you'll need to fulfill a service commitment, which typically lasts several years, although the exact length can vary. After that, you can transition to the Reserves where you'll continue to serve while being able to pursue civilian opportunities.

Remember, each service branch has slightly different requirements and processes, so it's worthwhile researching each one and perhaps even meeting with recruiters or military advisers for more specific advice. Good luck!