No. Students who enroll in ROTC don't join the Army. They take an ROTC class for which they receive credit. It's considered a college elective.

No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn their degrees.

Quite simply, leadership and management skills needed to become a U.S. Army officer or have a successful civilian career.

Students in ROTC learn through a unique program that involves both classroom and “live” situations. For instance, an ROTC cadet might be found leading classmates through adventure training, down a river in a raft, or up a mountain wall.

During the first two years, ROTC cadets have no military obligation (or the first year in the case of scholarship winners). Enrolled (noncontracted) cadets have no obligation until they contract to seek a commission.

The ROTC program is divided into phases: The basic course studies Army history, organization, and structure. The techniques and principles of leadership and management are stressed throughout. The advanced course concentrates on tactical operations and military instruction as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership, and command.

Yes. Each year, thousands of students attending colleges nationwide receive ROTC scholarships. ROTC awards them to students studying science, engineering, nursing, and business, as well as a variety of other majors.

Scholarships are awarded at different monetary levels. At some schools, an ROTC scholarship is worth up to $80,000 per year, which goes toward tuition and educational fees. Both scholarship and nonscholarship cadets also receive an allowance of $3,000 to $5,000 per year (depending on academic classification)

ROTC scholarships are not based on financial need. Instead, they’re awarded on merit. Merit is exhibited in academic achievement, physical fitness, and extracurricular activities, such as sports, student government, or part-time work.

No. Anyone can enroll in ROTC. And regardless of whether you're a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books, supplies, and equipment are furnished at no cost to you.

Scholarships are awarded throughout the year. High school students apply by Jan. 10 of their senior year. On campus, two- to four-year scholarships and selections are made continuously through the year depending on funding cycles.

In college and after graduation, cadets find that the training and experience they have received are assets — whether pursuing an Army or civilian career. Employers place high regard on the management and leadership skills that ROTC instructors stress. Plus, ROTC looks great on a resume. When cadets complete the ROTC course, upon graduation, they become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.