Frequently Asked Questions

No. As long as you have at least three-years left of full-time study (either in undergrad, graduate, or combo) you are eligible to join AFROTC provided you meet eligibility requirements.

Except for the final semester prior to graduation, cadets must maintain full-time student status. They must also earn a “C-“ or better in all AFROTC courses and cannot drop below 80% attendance. A 2.0 cumulative GPA is required to remain an active cadet, while a 2.5 cumulative GPA is necessary to maintain scholarship benefits.

Yes, upon graduation, cadets will earn enough credits for a minor in Aerospace Studies.

Most carpool, rideshare, or use public transit. Freshmen without cars often rely on carpools with upperclassmen. Some universities (like Stanford via OMAC) offer transportation reimbursements to help offset commuting costs.

You don’t need to meet standards on day one, but cadets must work toward passing the Air Force Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA). It includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2 mile run. Det 045 runs PT sessions to help cadets improve steadily. 

Individuals typically must meet the medical standards listed by DoDMERB. Crosscheck with the DoDI 6130.03 to review medical standards listed for DoDMERB. 

Not meeting the standards does not mean you are disqualified or Ineligible. Situations like this will be handled on a case by case basis and a waiver may be provided.

DoDI 6130.03

Scholarships are awarded either through the High School Scholarship program or In-College Scholarship Program. Receiving a scholarship is not always guaranteed and depends various factors such as performance, GPA, Major, and timing. For the most up to date information about scholarships please visit the main AFROTC website 

Cadets starting out will have to purchase the Civilian Equivalent (CEs) uniform. The CE uniform consists of a black polo shirt (minimal logo), beige khakis, black belt, black socks, black dress shoes (not pre-shined), and a black watch. Other Uniforms such as PT gear and OCPs will be fitted once a cadet progresses further into the program

No. You are free to walk away from the program after the first year without any financial obligation or service commitment. Any withdrawals after this time will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Cadets will typically sign a contract when they accept a scholarship or before attending Field Training.

Cadets do not go to bootcamp, but go to something similar. “Field Training” is the AFROTC equivalent of boot camp or basic training. AFROTC cadets participate in a minimum 2-week training program in at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama during the summer between their AS200 and AS300 years in AFROTC. 

Yes! The U.S. Space Force (USSF) falls under the Department of the Air Force (DAF) and AFROTC is one of the primary ways to commission as an officer in the Space Force. To compete for the Space Force, cadets must apply to the Space Force board and complete and interview process prior to contracting and attending field training. Once completed and accepted, cadets must complete the AFROTC program to commission as an officer in the Space Force. 

In the military, “enlisting” and “commissioning” refer to two different career paths, with the latter intended for those who want to become officers. Besides AFROTC, the other two commissioning programs include the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) and Officer Training School (OTS.) A bachelors degree or higher is generally required to commission as an officer but not required for enlisting.

An aviation or related major would help in gaining confidence and familiarity with flying but is not required. The only majors that may be restrictive for receiving a rated career field is Nursing, Meteorology and Electrical Engineering.  Any major can receive a pilot slot and is just one of the factors that are considered during selection. GPA, Fitness, rankings, and the Pilot Candidate Selection Method (PCSM). 

Yes, typically, Guard and Reserve can do AFROTC however you must work with your Guard or Reserve unit to release you from your contract if you plan on commisioning.

Please contact the Recruiting Officer for any specific questions about the program.
Phone: 408-924-2960
Email: det045-recruiting@sjsu.edu