ODS

 
Officer Development School
 

 

 

Officer Development School     

*** Email Address Updated: May 16, 2022 ***
If you have any questions, please consult the information included in the ODS website,  
email us at: NWPT_OTCN_INFORMATION@US.NAVY.MIL. For emergency issues or problems with check-in after hours and on weekends contact the Command Duty Officer (CDO) at (401) 862-4321.

If confirmed for a class, ODS staff will reach out to you 2 weeks prior to course convene date with amplifying guidance and information on the course and graduation.

 


Welcome aboard,

Welcome to Officer Development School! ODS is one of five officer accession programs operated at Officer Training Command Newport (OTC), and is the foundation for your success as a member of the Naval Officer Corps. The course is both comprehensive and intense, and is designed to facilitate the introduction to your responsibilities as a naval officer. ODS is physically demanding, but will also mentally challenge you as you learn about different aspects of the United States Navy including military structure, traditions and customs, the legal system, and finally, military etiquette. The website addresses check-in procedures, lodging, messing, transportation, uniforms and various other topics.

We look forward to your arrival. Report to the quarterdeck (lobby) of King Hall (Bldg. 291) in appropriate business casual civilian attire.  The first evolution occurs Sunday afternoon at approximately 1300. If you have any questions, please consult the information contained in the ODS website, email us at: NWPT_OTCN_INFORMATION@US.NAVY.MIL. For emergency issues or problems with check-in after hours and on weekends contact the Command Duty Officer (CDO) at (401) 862-4321.

Sincerely,
CAPT Alcorn
Commanding Officer
Officer Training Command Newport

 

ODS Program Overview

 

Navy Officer Development School (ODS) is one of five officer training schools located at Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island. This 5 week course is designed to provide a working knowledge of the Navy in order to prepare you to work as a commissioned Officer in the world’s greatest navy. In order to earn that honor, ODS will challenge you morally, mentally, and physically to prepare you to both lead sailors and conduct your duties worldwide.

ODS focuses on Naval Leadership, Naval Administration, Naval Organization, Sea Power, Military Law, Military Indoctrination, Naval Warfare and Damage Control.  It also provides leadership through case studies and instructor led leadership scenarios.

Each area of study will prepare you for life as a commissioned officer. Your personal Honor, Courage, and Commitment will be tested at ODS and you will be challenged to live up to the highest standards of these values.

A successful Naval Officer is one who embraces the mission of THE NAVY, and develops the ability to execute basic Naval Officer functions that are expected upon entering the fleet/Navy as a commissioned Officer in the United States Navy.
 

Physical Fitness Standards

Students must be within Navy Body Fat Standards upon arrival to ODS. Students not within standards may not graduate from Officer Development School. Navy Body Composition Assessment may be found at: Navy Body Composition Assessment

Academic Overview


1.  Military Indoctrination: During military indoctrination you will be taught basic military customs and courtesies, naval terminology, basic uniform assembly and requirements, inspection procedures and training requirements.

2.  Damage Control: The damage control curriculum is designed to familiarize you with the types of damage, which can occur in the naval environment due to accidents, warfare and nautical disasters. Damage control also includes instruction in firefighting theory and prevention of different kinds of fires common to sea, shore and air commands. It also includes principles of chemical, biological and radiological warfare defense. Practical demonstrations of flooding control are given in a mock-up of a shipboard space. Completion of both Damage Control ("wet trainer") and Basic Firefighting are required for successful completion of ODS graduation requirements.

3.  Naval Leadership: Subjects include leadership qualities, motivational theories, team building, management skills, decision making, goal setting and action planning, communication processes and public speaking skills. You will have many opportunities through practical application to demonstrate leadership skills.

4.  Division Officer: Subjects include military rank structure, performance evaluations, educational programs, enlisted records, classified material handling, naval correspondence, officer designations, promotions, pay and allowances, junior officer administrative duties and advancement.

5.  Military Law: Subjects introduced include the Military Code of Conduct, The Geneva Convention, the Uniform Code of Military Justice, investigations, non-judicial punishment, court-martial procedures, apprehensions, jurisdiction, pretrial restraints, administrative discharges and claims.

6.  Programs and Policies: Subjects include suicide awareness and prevention, Drug and Alcohol Program Advisor (DAPA), Human Resources, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) and Safety Programs.  It also covers programs such as Tricare, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society and the GI Bill.

 

Military Training

 

Military training at Officer Development School is comprised of the following categories:

1. Physical Training: During ODS, physical training will be conducted regularly and will include warm-ups, running and/or strength and conditioning exercises, and cool-down stretches. See the Physical Standards Section for more information.

2. Room Inspections: Student rooms are subject to inspection at all times.  To ensure cleanliness and maintain standards, room inspections occur at regular intervals.  Rooms are to be maintained in accordance with prescribed room standards which will be provided during training.

3. Personnel Inspection (PI): Each Officer will be inspected for proper uniform wear, grooming standards, knowledge (see Required Knowledge items below), hygiene, and general military appearance.

4. Drill: Approximately 20 - 25 hours are spent learning and practicing drill for graduation. Officers will be required to march while at ODS.

5. Navy Third Class Swimmer Qualification: Students will be required to pass the Navy Third Class Swimmer Qualification. This will test the student’s ability to jump off a 10ft platform, float for five (5) minutes, swim 50 yards, and inflate their uniform in a drown proofing exercise.

6. Shipboard Damage Control: Students will complete two tech training evolutions: Fire Fighting and Wet Trainer.  Students will learn the basics required for fighting fires, and saving a sinking ship.

 

Physical Fitness Standards

Students must be within Navy Body Fat Standards upon arrival to ODS or you will be dis-enrolled and sent back to point of origin.  Navy Body Composition Assessment may be found at: Navy Body Composition Assessment

Naval officers are expected to be a model of physical fitness to their sailors and the American public.  On check-in Sunday, students will undergo a Body Composition Analysis.  During the first week of training, students will execute a mock Navy Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA), in order to demonstrate ability to conform to Navy physical fitness standards. (*NOTE: Scores will not be entered into PRIMS)

The PFA consists of push-ups, planks, and a 1.5 mile run.

It is imperative to arrive in the best possible physical shape; ready and able to participate in a demanding physical fitness program.  The Navy’s Official guidance can be found here Navy Physical Readiness Test

Physical Training Overview

The Navy considers a physically fit body as important as a sound mind. The objectives of the physical training classes at Officer Training Command are to develop stamina, endurance and to improve your overall physical condition so you can meet physical fitness requirements associated with military service.

The better shape you’re in, the less susceptible you’ll be to injury. It is highly recommended that you prepare yourself well ahead of time. The following link contains recommended conditioning programs to help prepare you for the physical fitness requirements of ODS.

Postpartum Sailors may not attend ODS until they have reached six month postpartum status and have been cleared by a military Health Care Provider to participate in a wellness physical fitness assessment. All postpartum screenings must be completed prior to arrival.

 

Pre-Arrival Physical Training Program

Below is a link to the Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling System (NOFFS) virtual trainer. This virtual trainer will provide a series of Navy approved exercises that allow physical development and sustainment when gym facilities are not available.

Click here for Fitness Guide: 
Navy Fitness NOFFS
•Select "Group Training Series"
•Perform for 30-60 minutes, 3-4 days a week.

*** NOTE *** Contact your health care provider prior to commencing any exercise program.

 

Graduation Requirements

  
***NOTE***
Graduation is at 1000 on the last Friday of Class. Further Details will be provided once class convenes.
 
  • Attend 5 week Officer Development School

  • Demonstrate personal physical fitness by conforming to Navy physical fitness test standards

  • Demonstrate fundamental swimming skills through completion of Navy Third class Swimmer Qualification

  • Demonstrate shipboard damage control skills by completing both tech trainer evolutions (Wet Trainer and Fire fighter)

  • Demonstrate knowledge of fundamentals of Navy Officership by passing comprehensive exam

Officer Development School
 

Course Number: P-9E-0003 (CIN)
Title: OFFICER DEVELOPMENT SCHOOL
Location: OFFICER TRAINING COMMAND NEWPORT, RI
CDP: 03WW
Length: 35 Days
Class of School/Course: PC
Skill Identifier for Which Trained: NONE
Student UIC: 66949
Security Clearance: Open Tier 3 or equivalent investigation or a Final Adjudicated Secret or above

 

CONFIRMING YOUR SEAT IN A CLASS

  1. ENTRS: Please be assure to utilize eNTRS to book your request for ODS training via the “CORPORATE eNTERPRISE TRAINING ACTIVITY RESOURCE SYSTEM” website.  Welcome to CeTARS
  2. New Requests: Upon making a new request, confirm that the student information is correct to include the DOD-ID, name, UIC, SCAT, gender, email, and designator is all up to date and listed properly.
  3. Changes to Requests: If attempting to change an existing request that has been approved and needs to be amended so that it can be in another class, email PS2 Aleman and request a change. Approvals of request will depend upon quota for each class and availability of the ODS QCA.
  4. Troubleshooting: If there is any issues for booking requests in eNTRS, please utilize the SOPs, which can be found in the CETARS website to begin basic troubleshooting. Notwithstanding, if there are questions regarding status of a request, please have your command QCA reach out to PS2 Aleman for QCA-2-QCA link up.

 
For seat requests or concerns, please contact RESFOR: usn.norfolk.comnavresforcomva.mbx.cnrfc-dco@us.navy.mil

SPECIAL NOTES:


All Selected Reserves (SELRES) personnel must be assigned as a commissioned officer and paid as an officer to enroll and attend Officer Development School.
 
  • All SELRES prospective students must apply for a quota (seat) in a class before creating their orders using their .mil email only. Please contact your training officer at your Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) if assistance is needed in booking a quota for ODS classes through eNTRS (Enterprise Navy Training Reservation System).
  • Quotas for ODS under the SELRES SCAT Code USNARS are first come, first serve priority. It is imperative that you sign up as soon as you have been gained to an NRC and are reflecting as a commissioned officer. You will not receive a confirmed quota if information is not submitted in eNTRS.
  • Reservists - verify your RED/DA on NSIPS prior to arrival. Failing to verify your RED/DA on NSIPS will result in delayed pay and benefits for your family.
 

 

ODS Required Paperwork  



Below is the required paperwork needed for each student reporting to Officer Training Command Newport, (including prior service members).  All paperwork submitted will be returned to you at the end of the course.  For HPSP Students still in the HPSP program, please scroll to the bottom of the page to see your paperwork requirements.  *Not having all required paperwork will delay the Navy gaining you onto Active Duty, which will delay the ability to receive pay.   

Required Items:
(For all required documents, you should bring the original and at least one additional copy.)
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS)(or Reserve) Orders and copies of all Order Modifications that have followed
  • Oath of Office. (Oath of Office must be signed with ink by witnessing Officer.)
  • Recruiter Contact Information  (Name/Phone/Fax and NRD Address)
  • Bring a bank direct deposit form.  If this cannot be obtained prior to arrival, a blank/voided check may be used.  This is to ensure correct set-up of direct deposit account for military pay. 
  • Birth certificate and Social Security Card
  • Original unexpired state or government issued photo identification.
  • Bring any/all paperwork filled out with recruiter.  Bring copies even if recruiter is sending record to ODS.
  • W4
  • Service members Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
  • State Legal Residence
  • DD-Form 93
  • Marriage License (if applicable).  (Original)
  • Divorce documents (if applicable)
 
For Dependents:  You will need to wait until you have been strength gained into the Navy and receive a CAC to enroll your dependents in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility System (DEERS).  For required paperwork, bring legible scanned copy if unable to bring original.
  • Spouse's original unexpired identification card (driver's license, approved state identification card or passport) if applicable. 
  • Birth Certificates and Social Security Cards for all dependents (all children/spouse if applicable). 
  • If born outside of US, bring naturalization certificate and/or US birth certificate for citizen born abroad
  • Child custody documents (if applicable).
If receiving an accession bonus, the following is required:
 
  • Service Agreement
All documentation should be originals or the court-certified copy, no notarized copies or photo copies of an original copy will be accepted. 

Additional Required Documents for Students with Prior Military Service (All documents listed below are needed):
 
  • Any/all documents depicting prior time served in the military (active or reserve), i.e., DD-214, DD-368, NGB-22, last enlisted contract, Reserve Points Summary sheet, etc.
  • Ensure you read your orders in their entirety and have faxed any DD-214 to the appropriate entity (i.e. PERS-831 or NPC) as prescribed in orders
  • Ensure orders have been stamped by prior/detaching command
  • Page Two (Record of Emergency Data). Bring a copy of your NSIPS-verified Page 2.  Without a page 2, we cannot pay Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Type 2.
  • Last PSD (S-1/IPAC for prior Marine Corps personnel, Military Personnel Office for Air Force personnel, and S-1/Human Resource Service Center for Army personnel)
  • Point of Contact info (Name/Phone/Fax/and Address)
  • Must bring hard copy of SGLI
For Current (non-graduated) HPSP Students Only:
 
  • Bring Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or Reserve Orders and any Modifications.
  • Verify with the HPSP office that your Page 2, otherwise known as your "Record of Emergency Data" has been updated (if necessary) within the last 12 months for any changes.  If not, please update your Page 2 with the HPSP office prior to arriving at ODS.

Please note, all HPSP students pay issues will be handled by the HPSP office in Bethesda, MD. If you have questions or need assistance, please email USN.OHSTUDENT@MAIL.MIL and your inquiry will be processed promptly by the HPSP staff.
All HPSP student medical/dental records will be sent to ODS from the HPSP office.  However, strongly recommend HPSP students bring a copy of their immunization records.

Medical:

To attend ODS, you must have started a Covid-19 series.  Proof of vaccine required. 
If taking any prescription medications, bring a copy of the prescription and any other medical documentation needed to support need for a prescription.  A 5-week supply should be brought to ODS in original container. 
Bring all recent medical and dental records from military and civilian treatment facilities. 
 

Immunizations and Labs:

Bring proof of all Immunizations received throughout lifetime (including Covid-19). 
The following immunizations will be administered at ODS if no proof is provided:

             TWINRIX (Hep A/Hep B)
             HEP A Series
             HEP B Series
             Tetanus (Tdap)
             IPV (Polio)
             Seasonal Influenza
             PPD (Tuberculosis)
             Varicella
             MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)


The following Labs will be drawn while at ODS:

             HIV and results
             Hep B Titer
             Varicella Titer
             ABO/RH (Bloody type)
             IPV (Polio)
             V Zoster IGG
             DNA
             G6PD/Sickle Cell

**Laboratory bloodwork must be completed at ODS, and cannot be accepted from an outside facility.

 


Required and Recommended Items to Bring


The items needed to begin training are listed below. During check in, any student without the required items will be required to purchase them. Trips to the Navy Exchange will be directed by the Class Team.  You will NOT wear civilian clothing while at ODS. The only time students will wear civilian clothing is when they arrive at ODS, on their check-in day (if different than arrival date), and when departing ODS after graduation.
Conservative workout clothes are permitted on the first day prior to purchasing Basic Navy Physical Training uniform (if you already have Navy PT uniforms, you will not need civilian workout clothes).

Items to bring:

  • Debit/Credit card/Monies
  • Checks / mobile payment application
    • Anticipate $2,550 or more out-of-pocket expenses for uniform components and for misc. class costs.
    • Uniform card is issued to cover purchases and the student is responsible to pay off the balance at the time of out-processing.
    • Meals will be paid for by each student prior to graduating ODS. 
    • Notify all necessary financial institutions that you will be at a military training command and unable to utilize double authentication measures (cellphone number / text with password, email confirmation etc.). If possible, have accounts temporarily set-up for single authentication measures.
  • Students are expected to have all personal financial responsibilities addressed and placed in a steady state (not requiring constant review or action) prior to arrival at OTCN.
  • Paper list of emergency contact information [Next of Kin] (phone numbers and email addresses)
  • Eye glasses and/or contacts (if prescribed)
  • Laundry detergent to last 3 weeks, (recommend pods/powder type).
  • Digital wristwatch with alarm, (smart watches are authorized).
  • Hygiene products and toiletries (3 weeks' supply suggested, do not over pack).
  • Shaving gear (Electric razors are authorized.)
  • Personal Toiletries
    • Sunscreen
    • Nail Clippers
    • Shower Shoes (flip-flops any kind)
    • Mesh laundry bag (white or black)
    • Caddy Basket to hold toiletries
    • Bath towels/wash cloths
  • Conservative black or navy blue one-piece swimsuit for women, any brand.  For swimming, men will wear Navy PT shorts which will be provided during uniform purchase evolution
  • White athletic socks, ankle or calve, without visible emblems (7 pair minimum)
  • Crew neck tee-shirts, white, 100% cotton (5 minimum) 
  • Combination lock required (Key locks are not authorized)
  • Water bottle, transparent, any color,  30 oz. minimum
  • Running Shoes:
    • Please invest in a quality pair of running shoes less than six months old.  You will be running approximately 1.5 to 2 miles multiple days per per week.   (Running will be limited during winter months due to outdoor conditions.) 
  • Undergarments- 1 week supply- shall be white or wearer’s skin tone when worn with white shirts or yellow PT. Reference NAVPERS 1566
  • Unscented face and body wipes (between shower use)
  • Unscented hand lotion
  • Nose hair trimmer
  • Cell phone with charger
  • Insoles for both running shoes and boots
  • Lint Rollers
  • Prescribed medical equipment (to be cleared by medical upon beginning of training)
  • Bring any necessary items for your religious practice.
  • Alarm Clock, Battery-Operated
  • 3-4 black ink pens
  • Envelopes
  • Stamps
  • Note Cards
  • Scissors
  • Notebook, small to medium sized (solid color)
  • Shoe Shine Kit (Black Polish/Brush/Cloth)
  • Vitamins.
  • Black backpack (must be within Navy Regulations Uniform Regulations 2101)
  • Limited Power of Attorney granted to a trusted agent to act on student’s behalf in-case unanticipated situations arise (student loan repayment issues, rental property management, DEERs access etc.).
  • Hair securing products and devices (bobby pins, spin pins, clear elastic hair ties etc.) that match hair color
  • Optional: Female earrings in accordance with NAVPERS 15665J


Unauthorized/Contraband Items

Contraband is defined as any item that is prejudicial to the good order and discipline, health, welfare, or safety of any student at ODS. The following items are specifically identified as contraband and if brought on to the premises they will be confiscated and discarded. This list is not all inclusive:
 
  • Weapons: Any weapon (including edge, pointed, and impact weapons) firearms, knives over 3 inches in length, and letter openers.
  • Chemicals: Any general cleaning supplies or chemicals other than those provided by OTCN.
  • Food and Beverages: Beverages defined as any drink other than plain water
  • Alcohol: No alcohol of any kind is permitted within OTCN spaces. This does not include mouthwash, prescribed medications, or hand sanitizer.
  • Tobacco: No tobacco products or products intended to deliver nicotine will be used or possessed.
  • Medications:  All medications must be maintained in its original container with an appropriate prescription label.  Any over the counter (OTC) medications not approved will be confiscated and discarded on first day of ODS. 
  • Caffeine: Caffeine in any form is prohibited.
  • Supplements: Anything with the label “Supplemental Facts, Mineral, or Herbal supplements are not authorized.  Navy Drug and Alcohol Deterrence Policies and Guides
  • Gambling and Gaming Equipment: Gambling of any kind is prohibited along including the associated equipment (i.e. dice, cards, etc.)
  • Lights: Any light larger than one blub that uses more than 2 “AA” batteries.
  • Containers: Possession of any container intended for the storage of unauthorized chemicals, food, beverages, alcohol, tobacco, or medicine is considered the equivalent to possession of the item itself.
  • Hemp products or Derivatives: Any product made or derived from hemp, including CBD, regardless of the product’s THC concentration, claimed or actual, and regardless of whether such product may lawfully be bought, sold, and used is prohibited at OTCN.

Prior Military Service / Active Duty Students

Bring the following only if you already own them. Your uniforms will be verified for serviceability and proper fit after arrival. Any items determined to be unserviceable shall be replaced during uniform issue periods.
 
  • Basic PT short-sleeve shirt (gold) and shorts (silver lettering)
  • Service Dress Blue (Dry-cleaned) (If class graduates October – May)
  • Summer White (If class graduates May – October)
  • Service Khakis with garrison
  • NWU Type III with Black Boots (rough-side-out are not authorized)
  • Ribbons and warfare devices.  Large medals are required if class graduates October – May.
  • Optional overcoat. Black parka required in winter months.  Parka to be worn outside of winter months when weather requires warmer gear. 


 

For base entry, students will either need their CAC or their government issued ID and your orders to gain entry onto base. For additional information regarding travel to Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN) please review the OTCN Travel/Check-In 

Student will be required to ensure transportation to King Hall.  Every attempt should be made to fly into T.F. Green (Providence/Warwick, RI). OTCN currently does not have the capacity and resources for any type of command duty van to shuttle arriving students from the airport to base. You will need to utilize a taxi to get to base. OTCN does not endorse any taxi service; however, be advised that not all taxi companies have access to Naval Station Newport.  Taxis without base access authorization can go no further than the main gate (Gate 1) of the Naval Station.  Gate 1 is the only 24-hour access point for Naval Station Newport.  Verify with the taxi driver or taxi company that the driver has full access to the base. Rideshare companies do not have base access.  If utilizing transportation services, student should keep receipts and submit them for reimbursement at ultimate duty station. 

 

If you plan to drive your personal vehicle, refer to student parking map on the “Additional Documents and Maps” tab. There is temporary parking to the rear of King Hall for loading and unloading only.

Check in:

·         Everyone will conduct the Navy Body Composition Assessment (BCA) on Check-in Sunday. If not within standards by graduation, you will not graduate ODS.

·         Arrive within Navy grooming standards Navy Grooming Standards <https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/References/US-Navy-Uniforms/Uniform-Regulations/Chapter-2/>

·         Students are responsible for all meals prior to 1300 on check-in Sunday. If there are non-refrigerated items you wish to bring (i.e. healthy, dry snacks), do so and store them in the large locker in your rooms.

For additional information regarding base amenities and hours of operation: Naval Station Newport: In-Depth Welcome Center (2021 Edition) (mybaseguide.com) 


Go to the Travel / Check-In Page

ODS FAQ
 
 
  1. What does our diet consist of while at Officer Training Command?
    • You will be required to eat in the Ney Hall dining facility for every meal while you are here with the exception of liberty weekends.  You will only be eating three times a day.  Food is not allowed in the barracks. The galley has an adequate selection of food, which includes a salad and fruit bar, along with a variety of proteins and vegetables. They also provide some vegetarian options.
    • Special Dietary needs must be expressed by the first day of training; an email can be sent to the class team prior to arrival.  OTCN will do everything possible to accommodate special needs without compromising training.
 
  1. What religious accommodations are made at OTCN?
    • There is a Chaplain present to assist with religious needs.  Services available on base may be attended if not compromising training.  Student should bring any religious items needed to assist in personnel practice. 
    • Special religious should be expressed by the first day of training; an email can be sent to the class team prior to arrival.  OTCN will do everything possible to accommodate special needs without compromising training.
 
  1. If I am prior military service from a different branch of the military, how do I find out what ribbons and medals I am authorized to wear?
 
  1. Should I bring civilian clothes?
    • Civilian clothes are only authorized when traveling to and from ODS. Uniforms will be worn during all liberty periods.  Civilian clothes worn between arriving at ODS and the first evolution on Sunday afternoon should be casual and professional, i.e., no tank-tops, open-toed shoes, or plain white tee-shirts.
 
  1. What kind of expenses will I incur while at ODS?
    • You will incur meal expenses, which will run $97.00 per week as well as initial uniform costs which will be approximately $2,000 - $3,000.   Some other items will be:
      • Graduation Luncheon/Reception.  (Planned by each class, so cost will vary.)
      • Company T-Shirts/Sweatshirts.  Each company usually designs and orders a shirt.  These range from $15-$35 each.
      • Uniform accessories.  Throughout training you will probably need items to maintain your uniform.  This cost usually averages around $40.00.
      • Miscellaneous Supplies.  Items to help maintain your barracks, which is optional as OTC provides cleaning materials for your use.  Students report spending around $30-$40 a piece on items in this category.
      • Any other expense will be on the individual.  There is a Navy Exchange on the base, along with other MWR services. 
      • Pictures.  You will have an opportunity to purchase portraits of yourself in your service dress uniform.  These packages range from $30-$300.  This is an optional cost.
 
  1. What kinds of hairstyles are authorized for women?  Will I have time to groom my hair on a daily basis?  
    • For authorized hair styles, please look at the Navy Uniform Regulations Chapter two at the following link: Navy Regulations Personal Appearance
    • You will normally have 20-30 minutes in the morning for all morning hygiene.
 
  1. What specific office supplies should I bring to ODS?
    • You will need a small to medium notebook and 3-4 black pens (do not bring expensive pens) for notetaking.
 
  1. What specific personal items should I bring to ODS?
    • Please see required items section.
       
  2. Can I bring my cell phone?
    • Yes, however, use of your cellphone is limited for use until. Cell phone privileges will be addressed by the Class Team upon your arrival.
       
  3. Can I bring my laptop computer?
    • Yes.  Please be advised we do have wireless internet capability.  Also, there are computers available for you to use while at ODS. Access to personal email accounts (g-mail, yahoo, hotmail) is not accessible on these computers.
       
  4. Do I need to buy my uniform items prior to ODS, or will we purchase them there?
    • You do NOT need to purchase any uniforms prior to reporting to ODS.  The second day is uniform issue, and everything will be available for purchase on that day.  However, please bring any serviceable Navy uniforms that you already have to avoid the need to purchase them again while at ODS.
       
  5. If I am prior enlisted, should I bring a copy of my service record?
    • Please go to the required paperwork section.  If you still have your original enlisted service record, bring it.  It will need to be mailed to PERS to be archived.  You should make a copy of it prior to that.
 
  1. Can I bring over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, Motrin?
    • Yes, but they must be in the original bottles.
    • Caffeine is not an approved OTC item at OTCN
    • You cannot give/trade/sell over-the-counter medications to fellow students.
    • The student healthcare clinic, “King Hall medical,” does have a limited supply of some commonly used over-the-counter medications that are available for issue.
       
  2. I am already being paid at my current rank, do I still need to bring all the documentation?
    • It is recommended that you bring all the required paperwork if you have had any recent changes to the status of any of your dependents, or if your status recently changed (i.e., enlisted to officer, or reserve to active duty). If you do not bring it and there is a problem with your pay, this may slow the process of correcting it down the road.
 
  1. Who do I contact if I have a problem arriving at the base?
    • Contact the Command Duty Officer at (401) 862-4321, or your class team.
 
  1. What is a typical day like at ODS?
    • Days typically start at 0430, and begin with Physical Training at 0500. The majority of the day is filled with classes and usually ends at 1700.
 
  1. What can I expect the first weekend I arrive prior to the start of class on Monday?
    • You may not check in to King Hall prior to 1800 the Saturday before the beginning of class.  After arrival, but before class commencing on Sunday at 1300, you may drive on base, leave, and return to base with orders and CAC.  After the beginning of class, you will not be allowed to drive. 
    • No matter what your orders state, you need to be here by 1300 on that Sunday.
 
  1. Can females wear make-up during training?
    • You may bring makeup.  Your class team will inform you when classes start wearing makeup.  It may be worn for official photos and for graduation.
 
  1. What will be my mailing address for ODS?
    • (YOUR NAME)
      ODS (CLASS #)
      OFFICER TRAINING COMMAND NEWPORT
      1356 Meyerkord Avenue
      Newport, RI 02841-1641
 
  1. Should I obtain a Common Access Card (CAC) or Reserve ID card prior to my arrival at ODS?
    • You should make every effort to obtain your CAC (if active duty) or Reserve ID card (still in a Reserve status or in school) prior to reporting to ODS. Use the following website to locate the closest location to obtain a CAC and to schedule an appointment: https://rapids-appointments.dmdc.osd.mil/,  You will need a copy of your orders and two forms of picture ID to receive your Military ID card. Acceptable identification examples to obtain your CAC include: Military ID, Driver’s License, Passport, Social Security Card, voter registration card, Birth Certificate or Veterans Health Identification Card.  All must be unexpired.  During your training, time will be available if you are not able to receive your Military ID card prior to arrival.  It is not a guarantee that you will be able to receive your ID card while at ODS; you will be able to access the base and exchange/commissary with your orders. If you are uncertain as to which military ID you are eligible for, ask your recruiter or accession program.
 
  1. I am a new mother and am providing breast milk for my child; will I have an opportunity to continue pumping while I am in training at ODS?
    • Yes.  Students are permitted to pump when the training schedule allows.  Students must bring their own pumping supplies, and are responsible for monitoring, keeping, storing, and removing their own milk, and keeping the room clean.  Officer Training Command has opened a lactation room for staff and students to use while they are in training (located in King Hall).  OTCN does NOT provide a monitored refrigerator, and can NOT guarantee that any milk stored in the refrigerator maintains appropriate temperatures. 
 
  1. May I attend ODS if I am currently pregnant or recently had a baby?
    • Postpartum Sailors may not attend ODS until they have reached six month postpartum status and have been cleared by a military Health Care Provider to participate in a wellness physical fitness assessment. All postpartum screenings must be completed prior to arrival.
 
  1. What is the current liberty policy for ODS?
    • Students will be briefed on each liberty period while at ODS. Do not make any plans prior to reporting to ODS as the liberty policy for ODS has changed.
 

24.  I have orders to an overseas command and have my family moving with me, what do I need to complete?

  • If your next duty station is overseas and you have dependents moving with you, your orders likely direct you to complete a medical suitability screening and to obtain the appropriate foreign clearance for your dependents. You and your dependents should start the overseas suitability screening and foreign clearance prior to reporting to ODS - otherwise travel for your dependents may be delayed. ODS has limited capabilities to assist with overseas screenings/foreign clearance for dependents. Check the Pentagon’s Foreign Clearance Guide (https://www.fcg.pentagon.mil/fcg.cfm) for country specific requirements. If your dependents require a “No-fee passport”, you must apply for them prior to attending ODS. The application for “No-fee passport” (DD 1056) can be found on the ODS webpage. Your family can travel on tourist passports as long as you have applied for a no-fee passport.  You can contact your local post office for assistance. Contact your Program Manager, NRD, or NRC for assistance in initiating this process for you and your dependents. 

 

25.  How do I book travel after graduation?

  • You should come to ODS with your follow-on travel already booked. Officer Training Command - Newport (OTCN) can request flights for you here at OTCN, but very often you do not receive your ticket until the day prior to departure. If you intend to conduct personal travel between ODS and your next duty station, it is highly recommended that you book your own flight. Any tickets issued by the Navy will only be to and from the stops listed on your orders.  If you wish to change the destination/origin of a government-issued ticket, you will have to call SATO Travel Company yourself and reroute your flight, pay a fee, and any additional cost differences.

26.  What are my VA/Education benefits for joining the Navy?

  • As members of the armed forces, you are eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. On Day 1 of ODS, you will need to decide between using the Montgomery GI Bill or the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Prior to ODS, educate yourself on the differences between the two and decide which option is best for you. More information can be found at: https://www.va.gov/education/.

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