Air Force ROTC

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of scholarships are available?

There are two types of scholarships: High School Scholarship Program (HSSP) and General Charles McGee Leadership Award (CMLA). There are also opportunities for recognition that come with monetary awards, typically for cadets with noteworthy leadership, GPA, or community service. 

Do I have to be a student of Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV?

No, you may join AFROTC as a student of any of our crosstown schools such as HCC or UT (listed in crosstown section). However, you will be required to apply to Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV as a non-degree seeking student to register for the AFROTC classes through Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV. Additionally, you will need to commute to Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV's Tampa campus to attend the courses in-person every Tuesday and Thursday.

May I join the AFROTC as an international student?

If you have not already started the process towards citizenship, you cannot join the AFROTC.

If you are partway through the process, you can join the AFROTC. You cannot contract with the Air Force until you have become a U.S. citizen. Thus, by the second year of the program you must have earned, at the very least, your green card with a clear path to full citizenship. 

How long does it take to complete the program?

ROTC is typically a four-year program, however, there is an accelerated and challenging three-year option for qualified candidates. This is not recommended for most students as it is very difficult to meet all of the requirements within the significantly shorter timeframe.

May I enter the program in Spring?

Yes, you may start the program during Fall or Spring semesters. Those that start in Spring will catch up in the next Fall by taking both the 1st and 2nd year courses simultaneously. 

Do I have to be a freshman to enter the AFROTC?

No, you may start the program at any point of your college career, however it is recommended to start your freshman or sophomore year. Keep in mind that you must remain a full time student up until the last semester of AFROTC. Late starts may require taking additional courses, or pursuing additional degrees to maintain the full-time student status.

What are the weekly commitments?

Freshmen and sophomores typically spend six hours per week at the Detachment, while juniors and seniors spend about eight. Our activities are consolidated into Tuesday and Thursday mornings (530am-1100am). Minimum mandatory commitments include 2 hours of early morning Physical Training, 1 or 3 hours of Aerospace Studies classes, and 2 hours of Leadership Lab.

What is the commitment to the Air Force after commissioning?

Non-scholarship cadets have no commitment to the Air Force until the beginning of their 3rd year in the program. Once contracted, the typical commitment is 4 years. Aviation positions (Pilot, Navigator, etc.) range from 6-10 years.

Do I have to live in the dorms/barracks or on campus?

No. There is no dorm/housing requirement. Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV does have a Living Learning Community section reserved for Â鶹ÃÛÌÒAV ROTC students (including Army, Navy, Marines) if you wish to apply.

What happens after completing the program?

You will commission as an active duty United States Air Force Second Lieutenant (2Lt), joining the 1% of our nation who serves in the military.

(Note: we do NOT offer Air National Guard or Reserve opportunities. Please contact a local recruiter via .)

What does it mean to be an officer?

Officers are trained to be the leaders of the Air Force or Space Force. In addition to developing the Airmen and Guardians who serve under them, they are also responsible for executing the mission and representing the Air Force and Space Force professionally. That is why rank, pay, and career opportunities for officers are commensurate with their elevated level of responsibility.

Is AFROTC the only way to become an officer?

No, there are a total of three ways to become and officer: AFROTC, Air Force Academy, and Officer Training School.

AFROTC has the most options of locations as it is based out of more than 1,100 civilian colleges and universities .

The Air Force Academy is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado and, like AFROTC, is intended for those who want to become officers while simultaneously completing an undergraduate degree .

Officer Training School is a nine-week training course at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama, for those who have already earned a bachelor's degree (or higher) .