Thanks, but the post doesn't specify rather the AFROTC cadet has to go to a local recruiter, meps, etc. to enlist. Or do they go to straight to BMT after graduation?
@AROTC-dad is correct-- the best place to start is to ask your cadre.
Traditionally, contracted AFROTC cadets have been given the option of (a) heading off to BMT, or (b) repaying the financial assistance. According to
@Pima , option A is nowhere near as common as it used to be, but I personally have seen no indication that it is off the table. Take a look at AFROTCI 36-2011, para. 11.13.1.2 (bold font is mine):
"HQ AFROTC will consider terminating the recoupment debt of disenrolled cadets who complete at least 2 years of continuous enlisted active duty service or who receive an active duty commission (with any branch of the United States Armed Forces). A commission or enlistment in the Guard or Reserves does not apply unless two years of continuous active duty service is completed. Proof of service is the responsibility of the disenrolled cadet. To request termination, contact AFROTC/RRFD for guidance."
From the sounds of it, you will have some form of recoupment coming out of your paycheck or LES until you complete 2 years' continuous EAD service and then petition HQ AFROTC to discontinue recoupment.
When I left AFROTC to enlist (voluntarily, not forced out), and also left college at the same time, the process was fairly straight forward.
- I went to an AF recruiter who began the regular enlistment process (ASVAB scheduling, background check, etc.)
- The recruiter requested a DD 785, which is the official disenrollment from AF ROTC
- Once the DD 785 was received (it was fairly quick), I was a "normal" enlistee
- I completed MEPS, picked a job, and then four months later, I was arriving at Lackland AFB for my glorious and relaxed summer vacation. The welcoming party met us on the bus.
I don't know if you are looking at disenrollment due to being non-selected for SFT, but if this is the case, keep the following pointers in mind:
- There are many enlistment bonuses available that might be enough to cover the first year or two of your recoupment costs. There is also the option of student loan repayment (take out loans now to cover the cost of your recoupment, have the AF pay them back)
- You are not screwed if you enlist. Enlisting gives you (a) money, (b) valuable job training, (c) valuable military and leadership training, (d) 100% tuition assistance for college, and (e) extra pay as an officer as long as you complete at least 4 years enlisted service.
- You can always apply for a commission again in a few years through OTS, and it is not terribly difficult as long as you exit well from ROTC and do not burn bridges
- You will need to obtain a waiver to commission in the USAF/ANG/USAFR in the future following disenrollment from AFROTC. This is not a huge deal, but will add additional time to your officer package
- Nearly half of the enlisted force has a bachelors degree, meaning they were able to finish their coursework while enlisted (which means you can too). AFROTC is not the only path to a commission.
- Prior-enlisted officers typically make very good officers
