Frequently Asked Questions

Can I retain my (P) promotional status before coming to the school?
Be in Grade SPC, SPC (P), SGT, (or SGT (P) by exception only to be afforded during application shortages).
Can “geographical bachelors” live in the barracks?
Only under certain conditions.
What duty stations are available, and can we make the choice for a specific duty station?
The following duty stations are available: Ft. Belvoir , VA ; Ft. Bragg, NC ; and Hawaii. Students will have an opportunity to list their assignment preferences; however, DA makes the final decision based upon the needs of the Army.
How many soldiers are allocated for each specific ASI?
The optimum breakdown for ASI training is 6 – Instrumentation, 12 – Electrical, and 12 – Mechanical. A selection board determines which ASI training a student receives based upon the needs of the Army, student preference, background, and academic performance.
Can I sign in/out for housing if and when I arrive prior to the reporting date?
Yes, it is encouraged to arrive as early as possible in order to get on the housing list and get your family settled.
What specifically is taught in the Academic Phase of the Program?
Call (703) 806-3904. DSN: 656.
Prior coming to the school, would it be advisable to take a College Algebra and Physics Course?
Yes, especially if you have not been in an academic environment for some years. There are numerous computer base pre-algebra, algebra or trigonometry courses available. This is a fast paced course, which tends to shock students that do not arrive prepared. It is advisable.
Where can I find the actual report date for a specific class?
Call (703) 806-3904. DSN: 656.
Do I require a security clearance or interim clearance to apply?
No, but your application will be screened to determine if there is anything in your background that would prevent your attaining a clearance.
Can I bring my family to the school?
Those students attending the 21P, Prime Power Production Specialist, course are doing so in a PCS status. They are authorized all entitlements associated with a PCS move to include moving their family. USAR students should carefully assess the repercussions of moving their families for a one year period. The students attending one of the Prime Power School’s TDY courses are not authorized family accompany travel.
How long after arrival will I be administered a PT test?
You will take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) the first week you are here. You must also meet the Army height and weight standards upon arrival.
Will I be able to appear before a promotion board when I get to the school?
The Prime Power School will board Soldiers in the rank of Specialist while in the school if the Soldier is recommended for promotion by his leadership. This will not occur immediately after arrival. The School’s leadership will require a minimum of 90 days to evaluate your performance. It is highly recommended that Specialists arrive having already appeared before a promotion board in their current MOS. NOTE: All Specialists will be promoted upon successful completion of the school provided they meet all eligibility requirements for promotion to Sergeant.
I have heard the Prime Power School is worth college credits. Is this true?
Yes, all students are enrolled in college for the first phase of training. They will receive approximately 31 semester hours for the Academic Training phase (18 weeks of training). Students will also receive college credits from most colleges they attend based on the recommendations of the American Counsel of Education (ACE) guide.
What happens to students that fail to meet course standards?
They are released from the course and re-assigned based on the needs of the Army.
What does the training provided by the Prime Power School equate to?
The training received during the one year Prime Power Production Specialist Course prepares the graduate to perform various tasks relating to the Electrical Power production and distribution field. Graduates perform many tasks that are typically performed by Electrical or Mechanical Engineers.