JROTC FAQ

What is the Difference between Officer & Enlisted Leaders? 

Commissioned officers in the Army give enlisted personnel -- including non-commissioned officers -- the orders upon which they act to conduct the Army's business. They include first and second lieutenants, captains, majors, colonels, lieutenant-colonels, and generals. Non-commissioned officers can assist officers to determine the specific tasks necessary to complete a mission or project. The non-commissioned officers then ensure the tasks necessary to the commission are completed. For example, a U.S. Army lieutenant, who is a commissioned officer, might determine that a building requires repainting. He then tells a master sergeant to attend to it. The master sergeant, who is an NCO, details the job to the appropriate enlisted men of lower rank, who paint the deck. There are less officers than enlisted. Duty positions include: Platoon Leader, Company Commander, Battalion Commander, and all Staff Officers. 

Non-commissioned officers receive orders from commissioned officers and assign tasks to lower ranking enlisted personnel. They have practical experience dealing with lower-ranking enlisted personnel and can translate the officer's order into specific instructions to complete the job. For example, if an officer instructs an NCO such as a master sergeant that a building needs paint, the master sergeant will communicate the officer's desire to a sergeant first class. The sergeant first class will inspect the area. He might note that the bricks need repair. If so, he tells a staff sergeant in maintenance to repair the problem. The staff sergeant will direct a sergeant to attend to the repair. The sergeant will tell the lowest-ranking NCO, a corporal, to assemble a team of privates and make the repair. Duty Positions include: Team Leader, Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, Command Sergeant Major 

The greatest difference between commissioned U.S. Army officers and the Army's non-commissioned officers lies in the level of authority. A commissioned officer can command all enlisted personnel and other officers under his command. A non-commissioned officer cannot command commissioned officers except those placed under his command for training. In JROTC for every 1 Platoon Leader (Officer), there are 20 Enlisted cadets. Of the 20 enlisted cadets approx. 30% are NCOs.

They are similar in that commissioned officers and non-commissioned officers both work for the same employer: the U.S. Army. They are both managers as well. The commissioned officer serves in a senior management role. He has been entrusted with the control of those of lesser rank in the Army, including non-commissioned officers, by virtue of a commission from the President. The non-commissioned officer serves in a middle-management role, receiving orders from officers and ensuring that lower ranking Army personnel carry the orders out as instructed. 

What do I need to enroll?

1. Be Enrolled in the Host High School
   The student must attend the high school that hosts the Army JROTC unit.
   Some programs may accept students from nearby schools if there's a partnership agreement (known as a cross-enrollment).
   Be in Grades 9–12
   Typically open to students in grades 9–12.
   Students can join at any grade level, but earlier enrollment allows for more opportunities to advance in leadership and rank.
   Be Physically Fit for Participation
   While no entrance fitness test is required, students should be willing to participate in physical training (PT).
   Accommodations are available for students with physical limitations or special needs.
   Be of Good Moral Character
   Students must maintain good behavior and discipline.
   Serious disciplinary issues or criminal records may be disqualifying, but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
   Have Parental/Guardian Consent
   A parent or guardian must sign a permission form for minors.
   Demonstrate a Willingness to Participate
   Army JROTC is voluntary. Students are expected to:
   Wear the uniform one day per week (typically Wedensdays)
   Participate in classes, physical training, and drill
   Follow grooming standards (e.g., clean uniform, neat appearance)
   Engage in leadership and citizenship activities
   Meet Attendance Requirements
   Students must attend school regularly and participate in JROTC events and classes to remain in good standing.
   
   

2. ℹ️ Important Notes:

• No Military Obligation: Joining Army JROTC does not require or commit a student to military service.
  Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is not required to join the program, but may be necessary for certain leadership roles.
  No GPA Requirement to Enroll, but cadets are expected to maintain passing grades to stay in the program.

I'm a homeschooled student. How do I enroll?

Homeschooled students may request to enroll by calling the school and speak to a counselor.