When considering a career in the military, one option that may come to mind is becoming a contracted cadet. But what exactly does this mean, and how does it differ from other paths in the military? In this article, we`ll take a closer look at contracted cadets in the army.
First, let`s define what a contracted cadet is. Put simply, a contracted cadet is an individual who has signed a contract with the military to become an officer after completing their degree. This means that they will attend the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program while in college, which provides military training in addition to their regular coursework.
The ROTC program typically takes four years to complete, and during this time, contracted cadets are known as cadets. They receive a monthly stipend and are required to participate in military training and activities throughout their time in college. Upon graduation, they will commission as officers in the army and fulfill their commitment to serve.
So, what are the benefits of becoming a contracted cadet? For one, they are able to receive military training and experience while still in college, which can give them a leg up when it comes to being commissioned as an officer. Additionally, contracted cadets are eligible for scholarship opportunities that can help pay for their education.
However, it`s important to note that becoming a contracted cadet is not the only path to becoming an officer in the army. Other options include attending Officer Candidate School (OCS) after completing a bachelor`s degree or attending the United States Military Academy at West Point.
So, are contracted cadets in the army? The answer is yes, but it`s important to understand what this path entails and how it differs from other options. If you`re considering a career in the military and are interested in becoming an officer, it`s worth exploring all of your options and speaking with a recruiter to determine the best path for you.