Learn about Harvard ROTC

  • Harvard cadets and midshipmen attend ROTC classes, conduct physical training, and practice field training exercises throughout the year. Averaging around ~15 hours a week, students balance their ROTC commitment with academics, extracurriculars, and sports, include some in varsity sports.

  • ROTC offers scholarships to high school, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as active-duty enlisted soldiers (Green to Gold). As a high school senior, you can apply for a 4-year full tuition scholarship beginning in the fall. Undergraduate and graduate students can apply for a 2 or 3-year scholarship at the school they are enrolled. Each branch has different application deadlines, but all have a few applicant cycles spanning October through March.

    Although the first deadline usually falls in early October, there are non-writing requirements to prepare (from goarmy.com/careers-):

    • Have taken the SAT or ACT (effective in 2023-’24 AY)

    • Take a physical fitness assessment

    • Meet physical height and weight requirements

  • Every branch offers opportunities to exercise your gifts and skillsets. Some require more technical skills in STEM-affiliated areas, like Space Force and Navy ROTC, while others can benefit from foreign languages and knowledge in international affairs, like Air Force and Army ROTC. All branches however, have a place for you, regardless of your skillsets.

    If you wish to speak to a current ROTC student regarding which programs to apply to, visit our Contact Us page.

Our branches.

  • Air Force

    Air Force ROTC is a collection of cadets who are pursuing a commission in either the United States Air Force or Space Force. Leadership lab takes place Tuesday afternoons with activities including tactical training, leadership development, and guest speakers. Physical training is conducted on Wednesday and Friday mornings.

  • Army

    Army ROTC is a collection of cadets who are pursuing a commission in the United States Army. Leadership lab takes place Wednesday evenings with activities geared towards training cadets to become future Army Officers. Physical training is conducted on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings.

  • Navy/Marines

    Navy ROTC includes midshipmen pursuing a commission in the United States Navy or Marine Corps. Leadership lab takes place Wednesday mornings with training geared towards preparing Navy midshipmen to eventually lead a division and Marine Corps midshipmen for Officer Candidate School, The Basic School, and eventually leading a platoon. Physical training is conducted Tuesday and Thursday mornings.