National Guard OCS Contract Length: Everything you Need to Know
If you are considering joining the National Guard Officer Candidate School (OCS), you might be wondering about the length of the contract you will be required to sign. This is a valid concern, as the length of the contract will determine the duration of your commitment to the National Guard. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the National Guard OCS contract length, including the different types of contracts available and the factors that might influence the length of your contract.
Types of National Guard OCS Contracts
There are two main types of National Guard OCS contracts: state contracts and federal contracts.
A state contract is issued by the National Guard of your state. This contract will require you to serve in the National Guard of your state for a specific period of time, which could be anywhere from one to six years. State contracts are usually signed by candidates who wish to serve in their home state and have no plans to serve in other states or countries.
A federal contract, on the other hand, is issued by the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C. This contract will require you to serve in the National Guard or Reserve for a minimum of eight years, with at least three of those years in the National Guard. Federal contracts are usually signed by candidates who wish to serve in other states or countries, as they offer more opportunities for deployment.
Factors That Might Influence the Length of Your Contract
There are several factors that might influence the length of your National Guard OCS contract.
– MOS (Military Occupational Specialty): The length of your contract might depend on your MOS. Some MOSs require longer commitments than others.
– Education: If you have a bachelor`s degree or higher, you might be eligible for a shorter contract. This is because the National Guard values education and wants to incentivize candidates with advanced degrees to join.
– Age: If you are over the age of 30, you might be eligible for a shorter contract. This is because the National Guard is looking for candidates who can complete their service before reaching retirement age.
– Training: If you have already completed some military training, you might be eligible for a shorter contract. This is because the National Guard values candidates who have already gained some experience.
Conclusion
In summary, the National Guard OCS contract length will depend on the type of contract you sign, as well as several factors, such as your MOS, education, age, and training. It is important to carefully consider your options and speak with a recruiter before signing any contract, as this commitment will determine the duration of your service in the National Guard. With the right information and guidance, you can make an informed decision about your future in the National Guard.