Training to Become an Officer

As part of your training to become an officer in the National Guard, you’ll go through the Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC), a two-phase course designed to prepare you for the rigors, responsibilities and rewards of life as an officer.

This course is not the same as Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS). Find out more about warrant officer training.

About BOLC

BOLC-A
In BOLC-A (the Pre-Commissioning Phase), candidates who are not yet officers learn more about the Army's values and traditions, and about what it means to be an officer. You’ll complete one of the following programs:

  • Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC): A college elective course that allows you to earn your commission as a second lieutenant while you earn your four-year degree.
  • Officer Candidate School (OCS): A demanding leadership course, primarily for current enlisted Soldiers. You'll choose from either the traditional State OCS (weekends, over 16-18 months), Accelerated OCS (eight weeks straight, seven days a week) or Federal OCS (14 weeks).
  • Direct Commission: Candidates with professional qualifications (medical professionals, legal professionals and chaplains) may receive a nomination and direct appointment.
  • West Point: Scholarships are available for a select number of highly qualified, current National Guard Soldiers interested in attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Time frames and locations of BOLC-A will vary, depending on the course you choose. While each path is different, all will prepare you to be an effective leader in both your military and civilian life. 

BOLC-B
This is the Leadership and Branch Training section of BOLC, for those who are already officers. In Leadership Training, you'll train primarily in a field environment, undergoing a series of drills based on real-life scenarios and focusing on small-unit leadership and tactics. In addition to intense physical challenges and courses, your advanced training will include:

  • Land navigation
  • Weapons training
  • Practical exercises in leadership
  • Confidence and obstacle courses that challenge you to overcome your personal fears

In the Branch Training section, you'll learn the specialized skills, tactics, techniques and doctrine of your chosen branch, and prepare for success as a future platoon leader.

BOLC is a challenging course, but you’ll come out tougher, smarter, more confident and ready to lead Soldiers.

The time frame for BOLC-B ranges from 11-41 weeks, depending on the branch (career field) you choose. The location of your training will also be determined by the career field you choose. For the most up-to-date list of requirements for officer training or for additional information regarding BOLC, contact your local recruiter.

Effective November 30, 2010, applicants interested in attending Federal OCS must have a baccalaureate degree or higher. Waivers for individuals without a four-year degree, but with at least 90 nonduplicate credit hours toward a degree, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.