Enlistment with a Degree: Do You Still Need the OAR to Become an Officer in the Navy?

Introduction to Navy Enlistment and Officership

If a person enlists with a degree and expresses a desire to become an officer, would they still have to take the Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR) test even if they are in the Navy?

Understanding Officer Aspirations and Application Processes

It is important to note that if an individual's primary goal is not to become an officer, they would likely not have pursued enlistment in the first place. Typically, those interested in an officer career path would apply for the Officer Candidate School (OCS) rather than enlisting in the traditional sense.

Officer Options for Enlisted Sailors

As an enlisted sailor, there are several officer pathways available, which can include:

Restricted Line Officer (RO): For those who want to stay in the field they were initially trained in, becoming a restricted line officer is a possibility. These officers remain with the operational side of the Navy, transitioning from E-6 to O-1 after successfully completing certain training and examinations. Unrestricted Line Officer (ULO): This pathway sees sailors take on broader command and leadership roles, often requiring additional training, such as the Naval War College. Civilian Work Officers (CWO): These officers typically transition into specific civilian roles within the Navy, often requiring specialized training and experience. Liquid Discharge Officers (LDO): These officers may have unique career opportunities, but generally require significant time in service, often over 5 to 10 years.

The specific requirements and pathways can vary widely, and whether an individual needs to take the OAR test depends on the specific officer candidacy process they are pursuing.

OAR Requirements for Various Officer Programs

It is essential to understand that not all officer programs within the Navy require the OAR test. For example, Civilian Work Officers (CWO) and Liquid Discharge Officers (LDO) often have different requirements, and the OAR may not be a prerequisite for these roles. However, the average candidate for officer positions usually has a minimum of 5 to 10 years of service before being considered for certain roles.

On the other hand, for Officer Candidate School (OCS), while I do not recall having an OAR requirement during my preparation 16 years ago, specific requirements can change over time. It’s crucial to verify current requirements through official Navy channels.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Given the dynamic nature of Navy officer programs and their requirements, it is always advisable to consult official Navy resources and speak with recruiting and naval personnel to understand the specifics of your desired path.

Good luck in your endeavors to pursue a career as an officer in the Navy!