University Partnership Program (UPP) for Air Force and Space Force Cadets

The University Partnership Program (UPP) connects the Department of the Air Force with select civilian universities to support cadets pursuing higher education through Air Force ROTC or other commissioning pathways. UPP enhances access to quality degree programs while strengthening the pipeline for future officers in the Air Force and Space Force.

UPP is designed to build strategic relationships with institutions that offer high-demand degrees aligned with the Department of the Air Force's needs, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

How the University Partnership Program (UPP) Works

The University Partnership Program (UPP) formalizes partnerships between the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, and a growing list of public and private universities. Through these partnerships, cadets can access:

• Specialized academic programs in high-priority fields such as aerospace, cyber, engineering, and national security
• Air Force ROTC detachments or cross-enrollment agreements
• Research opportunities connected to Air Force and Space Force priorities
• Faculty mentorship and professional development tied to military careers
• Preferred consideration for commissioning opportunities

UPP does not function as a scholarship in itself, but rather enhances access to education, training, and career pathways through institutional collaboration.

Key Features of the University Partnership Program

Benefits of the University Partnership Program (UPP)

Participating in UPP opens the door to academic, professional, and leadership opportunities tailored to Air Force and Space Force careers. Students gain access to top-tier education and ROTC support while aligning their degrees with national defense priorities.

Some benefits of the UPP program include:

• UPP builds a pipeline between top universities and officer commissioning programs
• UPP supports academic and professional development aligned with defense priorities
• UPP increases access to ROTC programs through expanded partnerships
• UPP gives cadets and students exposure to government-funded research opportunities
• UPP helps identify and recruit talent in high-demand Air Force and Space Force career fields
• UPP promotes diversity and inclusion through expanded reach to underrepresented institutions

Is the UPP Right for You?

The University Partnership Program is best suited for students who plan to commission through Air Force ROTC or related officer pathways while pursuing degrees in mission-critical fields. UPP may be a good fit if you:

• Are interested in aerospace, cybersecurity, engineering, or national security studies
• Want access to ROTC programs and military-affiliated research opportunities.
• Are looking for a university with direct ties to Air Force or Space Force commissioning
• Want to build leadership skills and professional readiness while earning your degree?
• Are planning for a career in military service, defense, or federal research

How to Participate in the University Partnership Program

Follow these steps to get started in the UPP program.

1. Explore the list of UPP partner universities through the Air Force or Space Force websites.
2. Choose a participating school that offers your intended major and ROTC access.
3. Contact the school’s ROTC detachment or military education liaison to discuss enrollment.
4. Apply to the school and submit the required ROTC paperwork.
5. Participate in research, coursework, and ROTC activities aligned with commissioning goals. 

UPP participants follow the same commissioning path as other ROTC cadets but benefit from additional access to leadership, technical, and professional opportunities.

FAQs about the University Partnership Program (UPP)

Q: What is the goal of the University Partnership Program?
 A: UPP builds formal relationships between the Department of the Air Force and universities to develop future officers and technical leaders in critical fields.

Q: Does UPP include scholarships?
 A: UPP itself does not provide scholarships, but many partner schools offer ROTC-related financial aid and access to Air Force scholarships.

Q: Who is eligible to participate in UPP?
 A: Any student attending a UPP partner university who is eligible for Air Force ROTC or other commissioning pathways.

Q: What are the best majors for the UPP program?
 A: Engineering, cyber, computer science, physics, aerospace, and other STEM-related fields are the most in demand.

Q: Does every university participate in UPP?
 A: No. Only select institutions are partnered through the program. The Department of the Air Force manages the list and changes it over time.