The Honorable Path > Education > The Options
ENLISTED TO OFFICER
The Marine Corps offers a number of ways for enlisted Marines who show exceptional leadership potential to join the ranks of the Officer Corps.
Three programs that enable this to occur are the Enlisted Commissioning Program (ECP), the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Educational Program (MECEP) and the Meritorious Commissioning Program (MCP).
Enlisted Commissioning Program (ECP)
For Marines who have earned a four-year degree before joining the Corps or during active duty, the Enlisted Commissioning Program provides the opportunity to become a commissioned officer. Qualified Marines attend Officer Candidate School (OCS).
Candidates who successfully complete OCS are appointed to the grade of second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Educational Program (MECEP)
MECEP is an enlisted-to-officer commissioning program designed to provide enlisted Marines the opportunity to attend college. Marines selected for MECEP who successfully complete MECEP requirements will be commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps.
Meritorious Commissioning Program (MCP)
The Meritorious Commissioning Program (MCP) is for highly qualified enlisted Marines who do not have a bachelors degree.
Commanding Officers nominate Marines who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential. These selected nominees are assigned to Officer Candidate School (OCS) and a subsequent commissioning in the Marine Corps.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question:
- What qualities must candidates possess?
- Answer:
- Potential officers must display superior leadership skills and the ability to take initiative. They must also be a U.S. Citizen and have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university prior to applying for the program.
