Could someone explain how switching service branches works?

For example, if I am in AROTC but decide I want to commission as an AF officer, how does that work? I’ve heard you could do it.

I participated in AROTC back in college and was an MS-3 before switching to and eventually commisioning through AFROTC. My Military Science classes transferred over so I did not have to take the first two years of Aerospace Science but I did have to complete the third and fourth years of Aerospace Science completely to commision. Granted my case was special since I participated in the 1 Year commisioning program but I am sure if you were to transfer it would be something similar to my case.

Minimalmaple28 said:

For example, if I am in AROTC but decide I want to commission as an AF officer, how does that work? I’ve heard you could do it.

Click to expand...

It is not very common. Each service has criteria for release to commission in another. For the Army the starting point is AR 145-1 but I'm sure there are other regulations that are relevant too. It is more common to transfer as a cadet.

Page 44
6–34. Appointment in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Marine Corps (other than Regular Marine Corps)
Graduating Army ROTC cadets may be released from the Army to accept appointment in a component of the USAF or USMC if one of the following criteria is met: a. The cadet has served 12 months or more of active duty in the Service concerned. b. One or both of the cadet’s parents are currently on active duty or a retired member of that Service. c. The cadet’s spouse is a member of that Service.

Your question prompts a question in response and then a comment.

1. You are still in high school don't take a scholarship if you're not reasonably (not 100% but at least over 50%) sure that you want to commission in that branch. The branches all have distinctive enough cultures and requirements that you can make that determination. But don't take the scholarship with the thought that it is a way to pay for school and I will just switch branches if XX isn't my thing.
2. To explain the disconnect between AROTC parent and ADESA1996 I think they are speaking of two different problem sets. ADESA being another SMC grad is pointing out it is not uncommon for non scholarship/contracted cadets to move particularly their first or second years from one branch to another. The basic level 100 courses would be counted in the next service and the individual would then be responsible for getting caught up to prepare for follow training and commissioning requirement. What AROTC parent describes is a unique situation where the contracted cadet seeks at the last minute to make that switch. The caveats included may be factors but that is by no means a guarantee so don't plan on that as a last minute factor.

The linked AR 145-1 above also documents the transfer criteria for cadets of other services into Army ROTC. Contact an AFROTC unit for cadet transfer criteria. However, as indicated by @emwvmi01 if you have a preference of one service over another you should participate in that services ROTC program.