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Navy OCS, from the application to the day you commission

I went through Officer Candidate School in Newport and served as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer. Everything here is firsthand — the twelve weeks, the paperwork that comes before them, and the benefits nobody explains until you need them.

Staff Sgt. Jordan G. Kinal, Marine Corps Drill Instructor assigned to Officer Training Command, Newport (OTCN), Rhode Island

Start here

  • My Navy OCS Journey Twelve weeks at Newport, written up week by week.
  • Applying to Navy OCS Packages, waivers, the ASTB, and what a board actually sees.
  • Navy Officer Designators and Career Paths Pick the community before you judge your odds.
  • PCS Money and Allowances TLE, BAH, PPM — the money nobody explains before you move.
  • VA Home Loans What the loan actually does, and what prequalification is not.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2 conducts a change of command ceremony where Cmdr. Michael Hicks assumed command from Cmdr
  • Navy OCS Journey

OCS Preparation Resources: What You Need Before Day One

2 years ago
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Discover the top OCS preparation resources including Appendix B, the OCSINST 15301, and a proven 6-week fitness plan to excel at Navy Officer Candidate School.

The Space Physics Simulation chamber. A large vacuum chamber that can recreate plasma conditions in space to study basic plasma physics
  • US Navy

NROTC Anxiety About Leaving Home: Overcoming Fears

2 years ago
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Feeling anxious about leaving home for NROTC? You're not alone. Learn how to manage homesickness, build new friendships, and succeed at NSI from experienced alumni and a retired Navy officer.

USS Constitution leads the Sail250 Boston Parade of Sail, July 11, 2026. The Constitution is the oldest U.S. Navy warship still in service
  • US Navy

ASTB Preparation: Overcoming Math Gaps and BDCP After

2 years ago
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Practical advice for candidates with weak math/physics backgrounds on studying for the ASTB, plus guidance on BDCP eligibility after leaving NROTC.

From left to right, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) Fleet Executive Assistant Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class George Apav; Chief
  • Veteran Benefits

BAH for Spouses Separated: A Navy Guide

2 years ago
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BAH for spouses separated: how the allowance is based on your dependent's location, not your duty station. Learn about geobachelor life, requesting BAH for your spouse's address, and financial...

An MH-60R Seahawk, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77
  • Veteran Benefits

Financial Struggles After PCS: Resources for Navy Families

3 years ago
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Practical advice for Navy families facing financial hardship after an unexpected PCS, including counseling, TSP loans, Marine Corps Society loans, and home sale strategies.

Charleston, SC (July 10, 2026) Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic hosted its annual Palmetto Cybersecurity & STEM
  • US Navy

Medical Off-Ship Duty: A Guide for Navy Families Facing

3 years ago
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When a sailor needs cancer treatment, medical off-ship duty may be possible through LIMDU orders, the EMPLOY program, or medical board. Here's what you need to know to navigate the process.

Charleston, SC (July 8, 2026) Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic hosted its annual Palmetto Cybersecurity & STEM
  • US Navy

CEC Officer Competitiveness: Steps Before Graduation

3 years ago
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Enlisted Sailors aiming for the Civil Engineer Corps can take key steps years before graduation—pass the FE exam, network with CEC officers, take the OAR, and gain leadership experience through...

U.S. Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 250 pay their respects during a wreath-laying ceremony at the South Boston
  • Navy OCS Journey

OCS Care Packages: What to Send During Indoc Phase

3 years ago
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Learn what's allowed in OCS care packages during the Indoc Phase, what to avoid, and tips from a former Navy officer. Help your candidate stay connected without causing trouble.

Students in Officer Candidate School (OCS), Class 10-26, at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN)
  • US Navy

Medical Waiver Chances for Navy OCS: A D1 Athlete’s Story

3 years ago
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A former D1 athlete navigates medical waivers for AMPS and anxiety. Learn how to present your case and improve your medical waiver chances at Navy OCS.

PORTLAND, United Kingdom – Members of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCG 1) discuss upcoming mine countermeasure training
  • Veteran Benefits

Credit Card Debt & Security Clearance for OCS Candidates

3 years ago
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Worried about how credit card debt in collections affects your Navy OCS application and security clearance? This article covers the risks, mitigation steps, and recruiter advice.

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Categories

  • Navy OCS Journey (22)
  • US Navy (106)
  • Veteran Benefits (28)

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