Air Force ROTC Scholarships for College Students

Air Force ROTC Scholarships provide students with financial support to enroll in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) while pursuing a bachelor’s degree. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, book stipends, and leadership development programs.

The program is managed by AFROTC and operates under the Department of the Air Force, providing a pathway to commission as an officer in the Air Force or Space Force.

How Air Force ROTC Scholarships Work

Air Force ROTC Scholarships award funding to students who commit to ROTC participation and service obligations. Scholarship awards include:

• Full or partial tuition coverage
• Annual textbook allowance
• Monthly living stipend (for select awards)
• Participation in AFROTC leadership labs, field training, and professional development 

Scholarship eligibility requires acceptance into an AFROTC host university and meeting military fitness, medical, and academic standards. Selections occur through a competitive national board.

Key Features of Air Force ROTC Scholarships

Benefits of Air Force ROTC Scholarships

• ROTC Scholarships make college affordable by covering tuition and fees
• ROTC Scholarships support leadership development and military training during college
• ROTC Scholarships allow students to earn degrees while preparing for officer roles
• ROTC Scholarships reduce or eliminate dependence on personal or GI Bill funding
• AFROTC experience increases career readiness in and out of uniform

Is an Air Force ROTC Scholarship Right for You?

Air Force ROTC Scholarships are a strong fit for motivated students committed to military service and leadership. Consider ROTC if you:

• Want to become a commissioned officer in the Air Force or Space Force
• Are pursuing undergraduate studies at an AFROTC-hosting college
• Can meet physical, academic, and moral standards for commissioning
• Want financial support during college without immediate GI Bill use.
• Seek leadership training and service-focused education during college.
   

How to Apply for Air Force ROTC Scholarships

1. Identify colleges with AFROTC detachments accredited for your degree.
2. Contact AFROTC recruiters to discuss eligibility and deadlines.
3. Submit scholarship application, including academic transcripts, test scores, leadership experience, and physical fitness data.
4. Interview with AFROTC selection boards.
5. If selected, enroll in AFROTC and begin scholarship-funded coursework and ROTC training.
6. Maintain enrollment, fitness standards, and academic performance throughout college.

Scholarship types include in‑state and national awards offered annually by AFROTC. Selection and deadlines vary by detachment and scholarship tier.

FAQs about Air Force ROTC Scholarships

Q: Who qualifies for AFROTC scholarships?
A: High school seniors, current college students, and enlisted candidates who meet academic, physical, and moral requirements are eligible to apply.

Q: What do ROTC scholarships cover?
A: Scholarships cover full or partial tuition, textbook allowance, and a monthly living stipend for select tiers.

Q: Do ROTC scholars stay on active duty?
A: No. ROTC participants are civilians while in school; they commission upon completing their degree and ROTC training.

Q: Can ROTC scholarships be used at any college?
A: Scholarships apply only at colleges with an accredited AFROTC program.

Q: What service commitment comes with an ROTC scholarship?
A: Scholars incur an active-duty service obligation, typically four years in the Air Force or Space Force.