Understanding the U.S. Army Ranger Option and Timeline for RASP

If you have the Option 40 Ranger Option on your contract with the U.S. Army, you typically need to complete Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) before you can attend the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP). The timeline can vary based on your specific training schedule and the needs of the Army, but most soldiers with Option 40 can expect to go to RASP roughly 6 to 12 months after enlisting, assuming they meet the required physical fitness standards and other prerequisites.

Training Sequence for Option 40 Soldiers

You will begin with basic training, which is everything from BCT to OneSite Unit Training (OSUT), depending on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). If you are an Infantry (11 series) soldier, you will likely go straight to RASP after completing AIT or OSUT. If your contract includes the Airborne option in addition to Ranger, you will go straight to Airborne School immediately after AIT or OSUT.

Steps After BCT and AIT/OSUT

After basic training, you will go through various stages of training before you can attend RASP:

Airborne School: Normally lasting less than a week, this training is a prerequisite for most soldiers with Option 40. Pre-RASP: A duration of 2 to 6 weeks, focused on preparing you for RASP. RASP: The actual assessment and selection process for the Ranger program.

Parachute Riggers

If you are a Parachute Rigger (MOS 14W), your training sequence is slightly different. You will go through BCT, then proceed to Jump School for the Parachute Rigger qualification. After that, you will complete AIT and then Pre-RASP before starting RASP.

Chain of Command and Ranger Regiment

The responsibility of sending qualified soldiers to RASP lies with your Chain of Command at your unit. While Ranger School is not a requirement to be in Regiment, obtaining the Ranger Tab is more of a means of elevating one's legitimacy and indicating they have earned it. The Ranger Tab is more about graduating from a school, while the Scroll signifies a deployment with Regiment. According to my experience, choosing between the Tab and the Scroll largely depends on personal priorities and experiences.

Conclusion

The process from enlisting to becoming a Ranger is a rigorous journey that requires both physical and mental toughness. Always consult with your Recruiter or Chain of Command for the most accurate and personalized information regarding your specific situation and timeline. While the timelines can vary, the dedication and perseverance required to achieve the Ranger tabs and scrolls are undeniable.