Transfer NROTC scholarship to a different school after activation

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Candidate47

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Feb 25, 2021
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Last week I activated my 4-year NROTC scholarship., but I do not believe that my current school/Corps is a good fit for me personally and academically. I am looking into transferring schools after the fall semester and would like to stay on scholarship after my transfer as I have every intention of continuing NROTC at the school I transfer to. What is the process for transferring schools in NROTC and how do I transfer my scholarship as well? I already have a meeting set up with my Navy advisor in two days, but I was wondering if I could get some additional info on this.
 
Candidate47 said:
Last week I activated my 4-year NROTC scholarship., but I do not believe that my current school/Corps is a good fit for me personally and academically. I am looking into transferring schools after the fall semester and would like to stay on scholarship after my transfer as I have every intention of continuing NROTC at the school I transfer to. What is the process for transferring schools in NROTC and how do I transfer my scholarship as well? I already have a meeting set up with my Navy advisor in two days, but I was wondering if I could get some additional info on this.
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My question would be if you have only been at your school/program for a couple of weeks where do you draw the conclusion that "I do not believe that my current school/Corps is a good fit for me personally and academically"?? You hopefully chose your current school for your major course of study and/or location. Are you changing your major? Or do you look at the other school as "The grass is greener on the other side of the street"?

If you are looking to transfer to a school that you didn't think you could afford but now with the NROTC money can, be very careful as:
1. As @Go Dores! references the cost factor has to be nearly identical.
2. If you search these forums you will find a few posts from parents (and students) that relate to different occurrences that resulted in problems related to money and repayment, so be careful that you truly feel there is a problem where you are as you will need your current Chain of Command to likely endorse or evaluate your request.
 
Impulsive said:
My question would be if you have only been at your school/program for a couple of weeks where do you draw the conclusion that "I do not believe that my current school/Corps is a good fit for me personally and academically"??
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I believe what @Impulsive is trying to say is, “Don’t act impulsively.” 😉

If, after only a couple weeks, you already want to transfer, you need to do some serious soul-searching. That’s because, whatever the procedures might be for possibly transferring a scholarship, you’ll surely need to explain yourself to someone in charge.

Presumably you spent a lot of time and effort in high school trying to determine which college you’d attend. Now you say you don’t belong. Either your initial judgment was off or your decision process was off or your early conclusions are off — or any combination thereof. In any case, I wouldn’t make a move until you’ve given the place a fair chance. Which means at least one semester, if not a full year.

College is a huge transition for most freshmen, and many take a year (if not more) to find their bearings. As others here have said, make sure you’re running to — not away from — something. It’s an important habit for life.
 
Great posts above. I'll just add that the Corps of Cadet (or did you mean Marine Corps - either way actually) ROTC experience is designed at times to be a "suck". If you weren't suffering, questioning your decision, then I'd probably be more worried. Many SA young adults have similar overwhelmed, self-doubt moments. You are not alone, but you did chose this path, a regimented one because you wanted the challenge. Personally I'd transfer and look forward to 3.5 years of weekends, beach parties, big-10 football or whatever floats your boat (ship, whatever), but those who go through it also forge lifelong bonds with classmates that are cherished. So, I recommend you focus on excelling academically this semester, get through day by day and concurrently apply for a transfer or contact schools who admitted you and ask about an option to start with them in the Spring or next Fall as a transfer. I would think the corps of cadets might become harder if they know you intend to leave so I wouldn't yet talk to them about your intend to leave. Commit to this semester, and see if you feel differently.

Transferring the scholarship requires approval from the schools. It is not a guarantee but possible. I think like posts above though you don't have enough info to decide if you will adjust and begin to thrive in your current unit. Hang in there - keep at it. Be patient with yourself and be resolved to get through at least one semester and reassess. Good luck.
 
As I've told my DS and Cadets when I was a PMS - "Embrace the suck" - give yourself a year - yes, a whole year before jumping ship (Navy talk). Absolutely concur with the aforementioned comments, particularly concerning academics - it you stay great, if you transfer, those high grades you earned this year will make your acceptance/transition to a new university easier.
 
From the ROD, which @Go Dores! posted, it seems requirement g would be problematic at this point.

f. Secure a favorable endorsement by the PNSs at both NROTC units. Endorsements should address
the above requirements; and
g. Normally have one full academic year of observation.
 
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