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1. What is my mailing address?

Candidates at OCS can send and receive mail through USPS. Please use the following address format, ensuring that the candidate's name and class number are updated accordingly:

OC (First M.I. Last)
Officer Candidate School
Class ##-##
Officer Training Command Newport
1356 Meyerkord Avenue
Newport, RI 02841-1641

 

2. How do I apply to OCS, and what are the requirements?

All Officer Accession program applications, including OCS, are managed through Navy Recruiting Command. Civilian applicants should reach out to their nearest Navy Recruiter via Find Your Local U.S. Navy Recruiter Office. Fleet applicants can follow the guidelines available on Commissioning Programs. For questions, contact Navy Recruiting Command. Program Authorization requirements can be found here.

3. When should I arrive and check-in to OCS?

Candidates should arrive and check-in between 0800 on Saturday and 1200 on Monday. If unable to arrive by 1200 on Monday, contact the Officer Training Command Newport Command Duty Officer at (401) 862-4321 or your Class Team point of contact. Early arrivals will not be provided housing and should secure lodging at local hotels or Navy Gateway Inn and Suites. Submit all receipts for travel and lodging to OTCN before departing.

4. What kinds of hairstyles are authorized for men and women?

Men: Upon arrival, candidates will have their heads shaved. During the third training phase, men may start growing their hair out, but it must remain within Navy regulations. Women: Candidates must maintain a hairstyle compliant with Officer Candidate Regulations (OCR). Women with hair longer than a bob are required to wear it in a bun until the final phase. Shaved heads for women are not authorized. For guidelines, refer to the Grooming Standards.

5. How much time is allotted for personal hygiene each day?

Candidates have 10 to 20 minutes for hygiene each morning. Practice completing shaving, showering, dressing, and hair grooming within this time frame before arriving at OCS.

6. What does our diet consist of at Officer Training Command?

Candidates are required to dine at Ney Hall for all meals, except during liberty weekends in the final training phase. The dining facility offers a variety of proteins, vegetables, a salad and fruit bar, and vegetarian options.

7. How do prior military service members verify their authorized ribbons and medals?

Visit the following links for information on authorized awards and medals from other services:
U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations
U.S. Navy Awards

8. How can my family coordinate travel for the graduation ceremony?

Graduation ceremonies are typically held at 1000 on Fridays in Kay Hall, lasting approximately 60 minutes. Students are released from training by noon. Flights should be booked accordingly—after 1500 from Providence or after 1700 from Boston. Visit Go Newport for local services and accommodation options. Non-military guests must be vetted by base security. Provide the following information for each guest by week eight of training:

  • Full legal name (First, M.I., Last)
  • Birthdate
  • Additional requirements for foreign nationals:
    • Place of birth (city, country)
    • Home address
    • Passport number
    • Alien registration number
    • Social Security number (if applicable)

9. How can my family contact me in case of an emergency?

For emergencies, family members should contact the nearest American Red Cross. For non-emergent issues, contact the following:

10. What cannot be included in care packages for my candidate?

Mail is authorized for candidates. However, contraband items are prohibited. These include:

  • Weapons, blades, and letter openers
  • Chemicals and cleaning products
  • Food, beverages, and chewing gum (exceptions for advanced students in week nine)
  • Alcohol and tobacco products
  • Medicine, supplements, or energy drinks
  • Unauthorized electronic devices
  • Gambling items, including playing cards
  • Flashlights requiring more than two "AA" batteries
  • Sealable containers and cameras

If I drop from the program, can I leave the same day?

No. If you are disenrolled, you must enter the "Student Pool" for separation processing, which typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Active Duty / Prior Service Selection FAQs

What are the BCA and Physical Fitness requirements at OCS?
Arrive in peak physical condition, prepared to pass a Navy PRT with GOOD scores or higher. Failure to meet these standards may result in rollbacks or attrition. Details can be found here.

Are alternate cardio or swim options available for PRTs at OCS?
No. All PRTs must be completed by running the 1.5-mile course.

Should I complete a PRT before arriving at OCS?
Yes, ensure the current cycle PRT is logged in PRIMS before shipping.

Where can I find required documents for check-in?
Visit the OCS webpage and review the FAQ and Required Items tabs.

What happens if I do not complete OCS?
Candidates who drop or meet attrition criteria may lose their rate and be reassigned based on Navy needs.

 
 
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