BECOMING A MARINE
We turn the willing into the able, transforming purpose-driven recruits into Marines
who make a difference. Only those who complete the most demanding training can
accomplish the world's most demanding missions. If you seek our title, the path ahead
will be one of great challenge. Prevail, and your proudest days will be realized.
How to Prepare
No one can fully comprehend the difficulty of Marine Corps Recruit Training without experiencing it firsthand. But there are ways to prepare. These tips will help you strengthen your mind, body and mettle for the toughest 12 weeks you'll ever experience.
Recruit Training
Marine Corps Recruit Training is a challenge few experience—and even fewer complete. Twelve weeks of trial and triumph; it is here where the "recruit" label is shed, and the Eagle, Globe and Anchor is earned. This is the ultimate proving ground for those who are driven by purpose, guided by values, and aspire to earn the title reserved only for the Few.
Graduation
Graduation Day is the reward for every hardship endured, every obstacle overcome. The Eagle, Globe and Anchor is no longer a distant pursuit, but a distinct symbol of pride that will forever define a life of honor.
School of Infantry
Following recruit training and graduation, new Marines report to the School of Infantry where they receive extensive combat training and learn the meaning behind the Marine Corps mantra, "Every Marine a rifleman." Two schools make up the School of Infantry. One is the Infantry Training Battalion for Infantry Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Marines. The other is Marine Combat Training for Non-Infantry MOS Marines. SOI marks the transition from basic-trained Marines into combat-ready Marines.
OCS Physical Prep
Marine Officers lead from the front. Given the fact they lead the world's most elite fighting force, it only makes sense that Marine Officers would need to be in peak shape. This is why officer candidates are expected to arrive at OCS in top physical condition. It is highly recommended that candidates work with their Officer Selection Officer (OSO) to develop an overall health plan and exercise at least three to four times a week in the months leading up to OCS.
Commissioning Programs
For those seeking a purposeful career and an opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of others, there are multiple paths that can lead to the commission of a Marine Corps Officer. Although each is challenging, the rewards for those who succeed will last a lifetime. The paths include: Platoon Leaders Class, Officer Candidate Course, NROTC, U.S. Naval Academy and Enlisted to Officer.
Officer Candidates School
Located at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Officer Candidates School (OCS) is where Candidates are evaluated and screened to ensure they have the leadership ability, moral capacity and physical qualities needed to become Marine Officers. Candidates can either attend Platoon Leaders Class or the Officer Candidate Course.
Commissioning
Upon graduation from Officer Candidates School, candidates are commissioned as officers. They have earned the rank of 2nd lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, something few achieve. These new officers now await their next training ground: The Basic School.
The Basic School
The Basic School is the next stop for newly commissioned officers. At The Basic School, officer candidates rank the different Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) in order of their preference. As there are a limited number of slots for each MOS, designation within an MOS is largely determined by the needs of the Marine Corps. Once a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is decided upon, six months of intensive leadership training takes place in Quantico, VA. Upon graduation from The Basic School, young officers are ready to take command of Marines.
Specialized Training
In specialized training, each officer develops expertise in a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). This training takes place following completion of The Basic School and prepares newly commissioned officers to be technically proficient when leading their Marines.
Career Tool
Each role in the Marine Corps serves a critical purpose and requires unique and highly desirable skills. From warfighting operations to humanitarian relief, the success of the mission is dependent upon how well every Marine does his or her job because the Corps serves together as a single, cohesive force. There are hundreds of roles to fill—this tool can help you begin to find the one that fits you.
Transformation
Obstacles once considered insurmountable are now passable. The determination to prevail now overpowers the desire to quit. As you begin to change, you will not lose your soul—you will discover it. Your identity will not be erased; it will be sharpened. You will live by our Core Values—honor, courage and commitment.
Parents & Mentors
If you are a family member, friend or mentor of someone considering service as a United States Marine, it is important that you are able to provide informed guidance during the decision-making process. We invite you to explore how other families have approached the decision, read stories about life in the Corps, download informative discussion guides and get the facts about what it means to become part of the Marine family.
