The information below is derived from the official Program Authorization (PA) found at the bottom of this page.  It is the responsibility of the applicant to be familiar with the PA for the option in which they are applying.

SPECIAL DUTY OFFICER (INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL) OPTION

Age:  STA-21 Information Professional (IP) Option applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to complete degree requirements and be commissioned prior to 35th birthday.

Enlisted Source:  IP option is open to men and women of all ratings.

Educational Requirements:   STA-21 IP Option applicants are required to pursue fields of study directly related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to include Information Technology, Information Management, Computer Science, Computer Network Administration, Information Assurance, Information Security, Electronics Engineering Technology and Computer/Software Programming.

Medical Standards:  STA-21 IP Option applicants must meet physical standards for appointment as prescribed in the Manual of the Medical Department, Chapter 15 – color blindness not disqualifying.

Service Obligation:  STA-21 IP selectees will incur a five-year active duty obligation upon commissioning.

Clearance Requirements: IP applicants who are selected, must have a current TS/SCI clearance or provide proof that a TS/SCI clearance has been requested