Difference between 3-year and Sideload scholarship?

Stephy

Stephy

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Feb 25, 2017
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I was recently notified that I did not get the 4-year NROTC MO scholarship. So, looking at other options, I was wondering what the difference between a 3-year scholarship and a side-load scholarship is? How do you apply to each? Are there different benefits between the two?
Also, is there a separate process to becoming a college programmer, or do you just have to be accepted to the ROTC program and attend?
Thanks in advance :)
 
A 3-year NROTC scholarship is what is referred to as a side-load scholarship. They are one in the same Your battalion will let you know the application process or they will submit you for the scholarship. There 2 and 3 year scholarships (depending on what year in college you get it) and advanced standing. Advanced standing gives you a contract to commission and it pays a stipend and book money, no tuition. It has a shorter commitment, 3 years of service (I believe)

The process to become a college programmer is to apply and be accepted to the NROTC program at your college. Each school has a different process. Some require an application others just fill out some forms. You should contact the battalion at the college you are attending and ask "How do I become a college programmer?"

In addition, as an incoming college freshman you can apply again for a 4 year NROTC scholarship. It is the same application process you just completed. It would only pay for 3 years of school, but for some reason it is still referred to as a 4-year scholarship. This would be addition to competing for a sideload scholarship, which would be in the spring of next year.

My information is specific to Navy, but I beleive Marine Option is basically the same.
Take a look at these previous posts.
https://www.serviceacademyforums.com/index.php?threads/nrotc-college-programmer.55216/#post-547595
https://www.serviceacademyforums.com/index.php?threads/a-new-beginning.55208/#post-547529
https://www.serviceacademyforums.co...ning-nrotc-w-o-scholarship.55200/#post-547381
 
5Day is exactly right, and it is the same for the MO. My DD was awarded the four year Marine option as a college freshman this year, although it doesn't start until fall of her sophomore year.
 
What are typically the chances of being awarded a 3-year scholarship if you did not receive the 4-year? I do not know what i can improve on and even my recruiter says the most I can improve is 8 points to 300 on my PFT. I am just unsure because if I didn't get it this round and it's harder to get it for the 3-year then I will start PLC.
 
Competition for a 3 year, will be based on your performance in your NROTC unit and your performance in College. ACT/SAT scores are not part of the 2 and 3 year sideload application, other HS stats are probably also not highly weighted.

Reapplying for a NROTC 4-year scholarship is a different story. HS grades and SAT scores play an important part. You do have an opportunity to increase your SAT scores, if you are so inclined. Also, take advantage of the expertise in you new Battalion. Have they review your application and provide constructive criticism.
 
jackdallen said:
What are typically the chances of being awarded a 3-year scholarship if you did not receive the 4-year? I do not know what i can improve on and even my recruiter says the most I can improve is 8 points to 300 on my PFT. I am just unsure because if I didn't get it this round and it's harder to get it for the 3-year then I will start PLC.
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I endorse 5Days comments. I would further submit that regardless of scholarship, if you want to be an officer you should pursue NROTC as a college programmer for 2 years. If you achieve advanced standing, great your in. If not, you still have time to do PLC and you'll have 2 years of NROTC under your belt. You will already know at lot of things they teach that first summer of PLC. You will already have further developed your leadership skill in NROTC. You will have developed a military bearing and continued to strengthen your body in a supportive environment. Doing 2 years of NROTC without a scholarship or advanced standing is still going to move you towards your goal and is a worthwhile endeavor.
 
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