Q. What is the purpose of the NROTC program?
A. The purpose of the NROTC program is to develop future officers mentally, morally, and physically, and to instill in them the highest ideals of duty, loyalty, and the core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment in order to commission college graduates as Naval officers.
Q. Why do most students join the NROTC program?
A. Students join the program for a variety of reasons, with an individual purpose and motivation for each. In addition to scholarship benefits, many students join because of a calling to service, to aspire for careers in aviation or nuclear power, a desire for advanced training, opportunities to develop leadership, a structured path to a career, or to gain experiences you won’t find anywhere else. If you feel a calling to service and are looking for a challenge, the NROTC program is the right place.
Q. What are the NROTC scholarship benefits?
A. The NROTC scholarships provide the following benefits. Complete tuition coverage, ensuring your academic pursuits are unencumbered. A $375 semesterly allowance for textbooks, investing in your academic resources. Full payment for summer training and official travel, underscoring the importance of hands-on experience and travel in your training. A tax-free monthly stipend during the school year (10 months) designed to assist with personal expenses.
Q. Does the scholarship cover room and board expenses?
A. No. These expenses must be covered by individual families, and external scholarships and financial aid are available through Northwestern and Loyola Universities in addition to outside opportunities.
Q. What is the obligation period?
A. Acceptance of the NROTC scholarship to Northwestern University obligates you to an active duty service commitment. The length of this commitment depends on your choice of career option. You will incur this obligation upon the first day of classes in the fall of your sophomore year. In addition to an active duty obligation, you will have certain other responsibilities as a member of our NROTC team.
Q. Is it possible to go directly to graduate school before serving?
A. The Navy does not offer a guarantee, however, a few top students are selected each year to go on to graduate school. It’s important to note that the Navy and Marine Corps have their own Postgraduate Schools, and there are plenty of opportunities for graduate education while serving.
Q. Would I be allowed to change my major once in the program?
A. Yes. Provided that you will still graduate in time and remain in the same major tier with select transfers in tiers available.
Q. Can I have more than one major if in the program?
A. Yes. Many students in the program decide to have additional majors or minors beyond their initial major.
Q. Are uniforms worn to classes every day?
A. No. NROTC Midshipmen are only required to wear the uniform on Lab day, which occurs once a week during the school year.
Q. Are NROTC Midshipmen housed together?
A. No. Each student is responsible for their own housing arrangements and can choose to live in dorms, apartments, or fraternities or sororities.
Q. Can I switch from Navy option to Marine option or vice versa?
A. You can change from one option to the other, but it is not a guarantee and is on a case-by-case basis.
Q. What would my status be while in the NROTC program?
A. NROTC Midshipmen are classified as ‘inactive reservists’ and will be provided a ‘reserve’ military ID card.