ROTC cadets complete leadership training during their first two years during the Basic ROTC Course. Students who join ROTC later or wish to become eligible for the Advanced Course, complete a four-week leader training course at Fort Knox, Kentucky. These four weeks train students mentally, physically and emotionally to lead. They learn three different types of leadership, which prepare them for a future as an officer.
The ROTC helps fund a college education so students can worry less about the money and more about getting a degree. Scholarships are awarded based on merit and grade point average. Scholarships are for full tuition, and can also be used to pay room and board expenses if a cadet has other scholarships. In addition to tuition, ROTC scholarship cadets are eligible for $600 per semester toward books and fees as well as a monthly living allowance. Cadets who do not receive tuition scholarships are eligible for monthly stipends for as much as $500 per month, depending on the number of years in ROTC.
Upon completion of the ROTC curriculum, cadets enter the active Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard as a second lieutenant. They complete officer training within a chosen branch of the military and receive their first assignment. Commissioned officers have better salaries and benefits than enlisted soldiers. The amount of time served depends on the branch joined, as well as whether service members are full- or part-time.
Group physical training exercises are held three times per week in college ROTC. Participants who cannot meet the required physical fitness tests or who wish to improve their existing fitness level can attend additional fitness training sessions two days a week. Cadets who receive scholarships and will serve in the military after receiving their college degrees are required to pass the Army physical fitness exam, so these exercises ensure they are prepared. Overall, ROTC teaches fitness and wellness principles to help cadets lead healthy lives.