Join Army ROTC

Army ROTC is a college-first program, vested in your academic success.  A few of our hallmarks include:

  • Open enrollment to the basic course and multiple options to pay for education
  • Iowa State University fits ROTC requirements into the student’s declared major degree plan.
  • Priority reservations for rooms in the Army ROTC Learning Community that may be requested when applying for housing.
  • Cadet led tutoring programs augmented by university tutors.

Pay for college: scholarships and more

  • $317 Million

    Paid to 12.4K students for college by the Army in 2022.

The Army is the largest grantor of merit-based scholarships in the country and there are multiple ways that a commitment to ROTC can help pay for college. All contracted cadets qualify for a monthly stipend and book allowance.

Current high school students

Current High School Students may compete for a National Scholarship for up to four years of full tuition or room and board.  Applications for the scholarship typically run from June to March of the student’s senior year.

Current college and transfer students

Current College and Transfer Students may apply directly through our Recruiting Operations Officer for a variety of other options for scholarships and financial aid.  These include:

  • Campus Based Scholarships awarding up to three years tuition and fees
  • Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty Scholarships for those willing to simultaneously serve on enlisted duty in the Army National Guard or Army Reserve awarding full tuition or room and board.

Current and former servicemembers

Current and former servicemembers may use their accrued tuition benefits, apply for financial aid options available to current students, or may apply for unique scholarship options.  These include:

  • Minuteman Scholarships awarding up to four years tuition and fees for students willing to commit to commissioning in the Army National Guard or Army Reserve.
  • Green-to-Gold Scholarships for Active Duty Soldiers.
John Nosbisch

There are many ways that Army ROTC can help you afford your education but every situation is unique and personal.  I can help you navigate the nuances.

John Nosbisch, Recruiting Operations Officer

Take the next step

Joining Army ROTC is as easy as enrolling in our Basic Course (additional requirements are levied on incoming ROTC scholarship holders).  To have the best experience, we recommend the following:

Step 1.

Contact our Recruiting Operations Officer at arotc@iastate.edu to discuss your interest and understand your options.  This will ensure you begin receiving information on our orientation events.  Best practice: schedule a visit!

Step 2.

Get accepted to Iowa State University (or one of our partner schools).

Step 3.

Enroll in Iowa State University (or partner school) Military Studies Courses.

Fall: MS 1010, MS 1010L, MS 1500
Spring: MS 1020, MS 1020L, MS 1500