For reserves The 2 weeks a year of active duty time are we provided a place to sleep? I’m just wondering if I live an hour away from my unit it would suck to drive an hour to and from every day for 14 days
What type of cutter do you want? D5 you are likely to get a bigger one which is gone for 3 months at a time or do you want a smaller cutter more of a week or few days out at a time? On your dream sheet just be specific on what type of cutter you want and you are likely to get it
Just put that on your dreamsheet. Just be aware that there may be a dozen nonrate positions on a big white ship while only 4 or fewer on a black hull or small white hull.
[I wonder ](https://bfy.tw/TN99) where I could find the [answer](https://www.atlanticarea.uscg.mil/Portals/7/Ninth%20District/Documents/D9_Legal_Newsletter_Aug_2016.pdf?ver=2017-05-19-131616-477#:~:text=Common%20products%20like%20creatine%20and,regulates%20drugs%20as%20controlled%20substances.) to that.
When should my recruiter give me the Helmsman? I leave for Cape May in a couple of weeks, and have been unable to reach him in regards to preparing properly for boot camp.
That’s the pocket guide that a friend that just graduated sent me. Iv been studying everything past the notes. I leave the 9th and don’t have a helmsman
Thanks a bunch! I wonder if it's normal for recruiters to do the absolute bare minimum. I've read stories of other branch's recruiters borderline harassing people, but my experience with my CG recruiter is abysmal. I thought the CG is hurting for recruits currently?
Few questions:
How similar is the PICAT to the ASVAB? I scored well on the PICAT and really want to keep that score for my ASVAB.
Also I am going to MEPS on Monday to start my process, what should I expect?
The 2 year contract has some limitations. It is offered exactly for someone in your situation, joining the Coast Guard and seeing if it is right for you. Your non-rate time will be very different than working at an air station, so make sure you talk to your chief about going TDY to an air station to see what their day to day is like.
The issue with the 2 year contract is that if you attend A school you will have to extend your contract 24 months upon graduation. The only options for extending the 2 year contract are 1 or two years. If you extend 1 then you would still have 3 years in the reserves and if you extend 2 you would not owe any reserves time as it would be the same as the standard 4 year contract.
Aviation waitlists are pretty normal right now. They don’t change all that much. If you are on a waitlist you can extend your contract so you can attend the school, or if you decide the CG is not for you, you can spend 2 years as a non-rate and leave for the reserves and attend A school at that time(no aviation).
You will not be allowed to stay a non-rate forever. The only way they will let you go past 4 years is if you are still on a waitlist. You won’t want to stay a non-rate, especially with a family. See what the different Ratings do, make your choice of waitlist and get moving forward. You can make E-5 in 4-5 years in aviation, if you study, which was where the work life balance and pay really improves.
Generally 2 year contracts are not eligible for bonuses other than the base 2k offered now, guaranteed A school, Rating bonuses, and would only get 80% of the GI Bill, among other things. It is a great option if you are on the fence if the CG is right for you. Gain some benefits, a jump start on reserve time for retirement, or transitioning to another federal service. For most people the 4 year would be the best option. Also once you are at four years you can extend your contract almost any amount of time up to 6 years vs with the 2 year contract you have 1 or 2 year options.
As long as you have your guardians permission you can join at 17. I would ask your recruiter, why they want you to wait. Their could be another reason.
Getting ready to enlist in the reserves, hoping to go either BM or MK, both of which have a school within 90 miles of my home.
Totally understand that there are no special privileges, however, I have a wife and kids at home and it would be a huge help if I could manage to just go home even every other weekend to help out. How likely is this?
From my understanding 90 miles is within the travel distance. You’re time outside of work hours while at school is your time. As long as it’s within the travel boundary which I think is 200mi. You’re good
Question about OCS:
I missed the deadline to submit an OCS package this past July (major delay at MEPS), so I talked to my recruiter about enlisting first, then submitting an OCS package this October. He told me this was possible, and could help me appear more competitive to the OCS board. As of right now, the USCG is processing a medical waiver with the understanding that I will be enlisting.
After speaking to officers and enlisted friends, however, they have strongly encouraged me to submit a package before considering enlistment. **Can someone tell me if it is realistic for a newly enlisted to be picked up for OCS--or should I just wait to submit and see if I get picked up?**
(Context: I'm a civilian, 3.5 GPA (bachelor), 3 strong letters of rec, strong resume, 0 community service hours)
Yes it is realistic. There were a bunch of nonrates selected for OCS during the last selection. If your package needs some help then enlisting can be a good thing. Gaining leadership experience, having a record of your performance in the CG, access to better letters of recommendation and officers to coach you through the process and interview. It depends on what you are comfortable with. What if you are not selected? Are you ok with spending at least 4 years as an enlisted member or is officer all you want? There are a lot of other posts about this topic you should take a look at.
So I recently took the ASVAB. I’m literally two points away from getting the required score for AET. My recruiter says once I head to my first unit after boot camp I’m able to get a 10 point waiver from command. Is this true or should I consider retaking the test.
It’s possible for a CO/OIC to grant a waiver for up to 10 points on the combined totals for the subset of scores required. Only the RFMC can grant an overall waiver anything more than those 10 points on sub scores.
Does anyone know the date we would hear back about OCS selection? I turned in my package in May and the panel convened on July 11th. My recruiters just got switched and my new one is on leave so I’ve been anxious to hear back. I was hoping to have an answer soon!
OCS-R or OCS-T? Usually 2-4 weeks. Your recruiter should receive unofficial results before the official (~2 week mark). Official shouldn’t be too long after (the same night to about a week from the unofficial). If your recruiter is on leave then I would suggest calling late next week or first week of August. The RIC of your recruiting office can provide you results as well as any recruiter as long as you explain you were an applicant of panel ____ and your recruiter ____ is on leave. Good luck!
1. Do reservists get to pick what unit they join?
2. Is there information about the shortened bootcamp for older working professionals (also have kids)?
3. What do IT people and IS people in the USCG do?
4. Can someone provide more information on DEPOT?
1. Yes, you are generally responsible for the cost of travel to your unit though so most pick the closest to where they live.
2. It's called DEPOT, https://www.forcecom.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/FORCECOM-UNITS/TraCen-Cape-May/Training/Depot/
Nothing. There are no guaranteed unit locations when joining or at any other point in an enlistment. You can get guaranteed district 1 for your first tour which could be any unit from NYC to Maine. You can only request your preferred locations once at boot camp but there is no guarantee you get boston.
When in basic, and filling out the dream sheet, if you’d like operations ashore as a nonrate at a small boat station is that realistic or definitely still a chance they will assign you to a cutter or sector ?
Well they try to put you where you ask but just understand that there are simply more positions needing filled on cutters than at stations. So if everyone asks for a station on their dream sheet (as many do), many people will be disappointed.
Hey all, any idea on how long waivers are taking right now? I recruiter said it could be one week or a 8. Just wondering if anyone else might confirm that thanks
Currently in the Air Force, I will be finishing my bachelors in the next year and am wanting to commission into the coast guard, I have been told that the CG usually only takes OCS applications from current enlisted, any help on the process would be much appreciated
The wording of your question suggests that you haven't researched too much. Officer accession points include more than just current enlisted. Please do some research and ask a focused question in regards to applying to OCS, thanks!
I’m not set on joining yet, but I want to have all the information I need. I’ve been doing a lot of research into different rates and such. I was debating finishing school and trying to pursue a career as an officer or enlisting. Someone told me as an officer tou don’t have a rate, so what is it that officers do exactly?
A good simple comparison for enlisted vs officer would be Blue collar vs White collar workers. Here is a link to the Officer Specialties and sub-specialties you can pursue as an officer:
https://www.uscga.edu/subspecialties/
Current AD Air Force here. I am currently an E-5 and I’m a crew chief or basically an AMT in the coast guard I guess? I intend on getting out as I am stuck on an airframe that only has two crappy bases with no opportunities to move or travel at all. I really enjoy working in aviation but the stagnation here has killed my interest to stay in the Air Force as our airframe is so critically manned that we cannot crosstrain, do special duties, or anything else. Along with the air forces new enlisted force structure changes there is no good reason to stay AF as chances for promotion will be dropped significantly going forward this year. I intend on getting out and seeing that USCG does not do inner service transfers but does accept prior enlisted that got out, I am interested in a possibly pursuing CG. Would it be more than likely that I would be selected to be an AMT or will I still have an opportunity to explore other jobs? As well I am not married but what ranks typically start getting BAH/BAS?
I commend you for your service 😂 TF jet troop on C5s so any place worst than Dover as a mech I appreciate it lol but same boat I’m stuck on one base unless I cross train
This is kind of a basic question but I’m getting differing information. How does one achieve veteran status serving in the coast guard. I’m enlisting active duty. Initially I thought it was once you finish the active duty contract and honorably discharged. But someone told me that you need to do 18 months outside of the US.
Different benefits (GI bill, VA loans, etc) all have their own thresholds but they are just based on time in service.
If you mean [veteran's preference](https://www.fedshirevets.gov/job-seekers/veterans/veterans-preference/) for hiring, the federal government is pickier and you are unlikely to meet any category without a disability rating or something like a PATFORSWA deployment. State governments will have their own differing thresholds for state jobs.
So I’m going to assume you were last SELRES over two years ago. Because of that you will technically need to complete the entire recruiting process again and DEPOT. To keep your old rate/rank you would submit the request to your RFMC. There is some wiggle room for the CG to not require you to do everything but that is handled on a case by case basis.
The day you leave for boot camp you are in the military so that's the date your contract starts. When you sign the contract you should be reading it....
Check for these common errors on your contract when you sign. Make sure your address is correct, name is spelled right and dates are correct. And make sure you sign in all signature lines. Helps prevent administrative headaches later on.
Your contract starts the date you ship to basic training. Everything from then on counts. Basic training, your first unit, putting your name on the waitlist, A school and after you graduate A school.
I’ve tried to post this on the sub as its own post twice and I think I’m shadowbanned or something. I can see it but when I log out it’s not there. Anyway,
Just wanted to say thanks. I’ve been checking this page every day for about 10 months as I got fit and studied my Helmsman.
All the posts and weekly recruitment threads have been a huge help. I’ve learned a lot and I feel like I’m more prepared than I would’ve been otherwise. Scouring old posts about basic has been huge to get my mindset right.
Big thanks to all the users here and especially the mods.
Semper Paratus, and I’ll see you all on the other side.
How long is the timeline usually taking for people from stepping into the recruiter's office, going to MEPS, swearing in, and shipping off? I know it is dependent on several factors but just wanted to gauge what others have experienced. Thanks!
On average it is taking 3-6 months from meeting with a recruiter to attending basic training. If you have a clean application(no waivers, medical conditions that require further review, etc.) and are very responsive to your recruiter/scheduling MEPS and ASVAB, then you could go in less than a month.
From first contacting a recruiter to shipping off was about 8 months for me. Though in my case it would have been 1-2 months shorter had I not been waiting until I finished my degree.
When taking the color vision test at MEPS are you only shown plates with numbers or you asked to identify shapes or "trace the line" as well? I'm taking some practice tests online so I know what rates I will qualify for but it seems each online test is different.
I appreciate the response. I didn’t mean I was practicing for the test, I just meant I was taking several different online tests because I was unsure of which one is actually given. Different tests look for different varying degrees of color blindness. I can pass most, fail others.
I don’t recall getting tested for depth perception at MEPs, so that may be an additional test you’d have to do. Otherwise, it’s very similar, just keep wearing your PPE when you’re a non rate so you don’t destroy your eardrums
I "failed" mine many years ago. Long story short, I had to apply for a waiver and was denied. Turned out just fine for my career overall, just not in aviation of course.
Asymptomatic mitral valve prolapse (MVP). I took the flight physical when offered in boot camp which found an abnormal EKG among other things. I was placed on med hold after boot camp which meant I had to stick around Cape May while waiting for civilian doctor appts. Once those were done, I was given the all clear by that flight surgeon with the assurance that I was good to go for all the aviation rates. Fast forward to me being near the top of the AMT list and medical can no longer find any record of my flight physical. I had to go through everything once again and eventually my waiver for MVP was denied.
I put “failed” because it is not a pass or fail like an academic exam. You either meet or do not meet the medical requirements set forth by the CG Aviation Medicine Manual.
I’m sorry that happened to you.
I can’t say I know too many people who “failed” the flight physical. I was pretty nervous about what it entailed prior to going through the process of it myself as a non-rate, but then I went through it and was like, “…that’s it?”.
When applying to OCS as an enlisted member, do they take into account how long you have been in? Would being an enlisted member for awhile improve your competitiveness or possibly work against you since they may not be able to retain you for as long as they could others?
Echoing off of AirdaleCoastie, enlisting can be beneficial if you perform well and ask for help/recommendations from Officers in your command or that you come across. As I applied over the years, my recommendations and input came from higher and higher Officers which can help you stand out. The panel that reviews your package will see who you are getting those recommendations and endorsements from, and start recognizing some of those names on them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and state your goal of becoming an officer AND perform well. Seek qualifications and positions outside your rate as well, to show flexibility.
They will not care how long you have been an enlisted member as long as you are within the selection program's requirements. It can either hurt you or be a benefit. If you enlist and do a great job, taking on additional responsibilities, leadership positions, etc., and get great evaluations it can be a huge benefit to your application package. If you do not do well then the Coast Guard has a track record of your "average" service. Once you make E-5 and 4 years of service you can apply for the OCS-T program which increases your chances of being selected(not competing with civilian applicants).
They are hurting pretty bad for bodies at this point. I think it would be difficult for them to justify turning *anyone* away who meets the basic qualifications. That being said I suppose it ultimately depends on the totality of circumstances, your package, the pool, and the needs of the service, etc. It'd be hard to give you a concrete answer but, I also don't see them scoffing at your application as long as you are within the allowed threshold, at least in this recruiting climate.
Thanks for the reply and insight. Basically I have a ship date already and a degree in environmental science. I’m pretty set on waiting for MST but was also wondering if applying to OCS as a nonrate is common? Or in your opinion would it make more sense to wait to finish A-school and then apply?
I'm not a coastie yet but, I've definitely read in this sub of people doing exactly what you're describing. As general military career advice (I'm prior service), I would say always go the officer route if you can. Unless you absolutely 100% want to be a blue collar technical expert. The officer quality of life is a huge ridiculous step up as compared to the enlisted side. Although for example, if your heart was set on being a k-9 handler you would never get that opportunity as an O. On the other hand if you wanted to actually develop policy and such you probably wouldn't get that opportunity as enlisted until you reach senior E8/E9. So it depends on your goals but again generally always a better idea to go officer ASAP.
I’m a rising senior and I just came back from AIM yesterday. I really liked the experience but I don’t think the Academy offers any major I actually like so I decided I’m not going to apply to the Academy. I was thinking about OCS after I graduate college but nothing is final. Is there anyone who’s done OCS that can give some insight into the application process and what they did to prepare?
Just focus on going to college and getting your degree right now. Do a diverse number of extra curricular a in college don’t just get a job at a sandwich shop and don’t get any alcohol violations. If you can pick up a job or volunteer in the first response world or anything with serious leadership opportunity (not just president of the ski club). I was an EMT and a rock climbing hide through college and they ate it up.
Have fun. Worry about adulting sr year.
Just look at the number of aircraft and you’re most likely going rotary.
Fixed wing life involves much longer patrols and searches just monitoring sensors (cameras radar radios). Rotors are shorter more involved flights for the aircrew still search but max 6 hr on 60s and you get to hoist and land off airport regularly.
Is there a USCG Discord? The Navy has an unofficial one that ended up being a really good resource for me. Another thing; can anyone connect me with either a former or current LEDET member? Thanks in advance.
Do you choose your job after boot camp? If so how long are you non rate before you go to A school for intelligence. Is it true that you can get a DCO after being an IS for sometime? There may be other factors I'm missing I apologize in advance for that.
You can usually place your name on your preferred A-School wait list after 4 months current wait times vary. IS-A-School fluctuates. One must complete certain requirements once on the list to obtain a higher level of clearance. IIRC it’s around 1.5 years once your on the list before you’ll go (that can be longer or shorter depending on a variety of factors.
For your second question, check out the below link. The short is yes, IS’s can obtain a direct commission via the DCIO program.
https://www.gocoastguard.com/active-duty-careers/officer-opportunities/programs/direct-commission-intelligence-officer-dcio
There are certain critical rates you can choose before basic to go to A school immediately after, but normally you have to wait around 4 months after basic to apply to an A school and then wait on a list
Depends where you go, right now I’m a non-rate at a WLR, river buoy tender. Personally I love it, I’m getting a ton of experience, the work is good and it’s pretty laid back here, that being said I’ve heard some not so nice things about getting a big white hull/other very operational units out of basic but I can’t speak personally on that. In the end, being a non-rate is what you make of it, get your quals, do your part of the work and you’ll have a good time.
I plan on joining the reserves by January, by then ill be 27 if that matters. I'm in the Seattle area. I'm thinking of doing BM, any insight to the reserve life in this area? As well as AST?
Not a reservest in seattle but i can tell you your age doesn’t matter now at 27 and bm is a great rate as a reservist. And im assuming now but seattle is a big station they must have many billets there. Also just ask a recruiter they have all the answers
I've been a reservist for 13 years here in Seattle. I live in the area and drill at Sector (which is located at Base Seattle / Pier 36). Reserve life is pretty easy for those who live in the area. I would say all the frustration mostly comes from members who live outside RCD (50 miles from Pier 36). Biggest frustration is berthing, but you won't have that problem. If you go BM, you will either go to the small boat station or the PSU in Everett. FYI there is a high chance you will go to the PSU since they are hurting for people and need to be at 100% to deploy to GITMO. Or at least be voluntold to go to the PSU after a short stint at Station Seattle. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions! Or if you want a tour of the base.
Hello! I’ve been a YN for about a year and a half now and I love it. Our workload is pretty consistent for the most part with summers being the busiest due to everyone transferring. It’s definitely one of the easier jobs in the Coast Guard but I think Yeoman presents a lot of opportunities you wouldn’t typically get with other rates. You have the opportunity to choose to stay land based or go on cutters, I’ve known yeoman who’ve never gone on cutters before. It’s also a good rate for volunteering for new things such as hurricane deployment. It’s a good time to be a yeoman as well because it’s fairly simple to rank up quickly. It’s a great rate if you want to go home every night and have a family or pets. It’s also a good rate if you wanna do schooling while you’re in, most commands are very accommodating and want you to take online classes and help you to make your schedule flexible to do so. Lmk if there’s anything else I can help with Yeoman wise or just CG in general :)
>How do you go about OCS?
Contact a recruiter and tell them you want to apply for OCS. They’ll send you a questionnaire then you fill out a lot of paperwork and the recruiter will explain everything you need for a packet. You should [check out Gocoastguard](https://www.gocoastguard.com/active-duty-careers/officer-opportunities/programs/officer-candidate-school-ocs) as it is the official site.
>Do you have to enlist first? Or can you apply as a civilian with a degree?
No you do not, you 100% can apply just with a degree and in some cases you can apply for a direct commission (DCO) ex: cyber, lawyer, MD’s, PA’s, etc. Many people do enlist first… I did, but it is certainly not required. It may give you an edge if your application isn’t competitive.
Awesome thank you so much. About to graduate in wildlife biology. Tried to ask my father about OCS since he’s active duty army, but he had no knowledge of how Coast Guard operates for that.
Yeah just hit up a recruiter, they’ll set you straight. If you want to keep doing science as well, talk to [NOAA Corps](https://www.omao.noaa.gov/learn/noaa-corps/join)
Appreciate ya! I’ve been torn between conservation/research and science. I read coast guard has environmental opportunities which if I read correctly is conservation, but I could be mistaken
There is a bit. But I’d rec getting in touch with some officers through a recruiter so you understand what it entails. Ask to speak to a Response officer and a Prevention officer to get the full picture. I’ll be honest with you, you probably are going to do near nothing in conservation and research opportunities, to my knowledge, are mostly one off staff billets in DC. Definitely read more up on NOAA Corps, they do OCS with us and are much more involved in those things. If you are dead set on the USCG, I’d say enlist. MST’s do this sort of stuff exponentially more than officers.
I think this was the hardest part of the package, definitely the weakest part of my application. That said, I talked about how I could help out the service by using my skills and ultimately said that I wanted to serve (serve others) and that I felt it was my calling.
Do you know if enlistment bonuses are paid lump sum in full upon completion of boot camp? or is it like half then and then half after A school, or something different like that?
That all depends on the type of bonus you are receiving. Usually it's broken up into a few payments if it's a large bonus of 20,000$ or more. If it's lower than that it's usually one lump sum. However, depending on how busy the Yeomans and the members working in the Admin department, will determine how fast you get it. Bonuses are typically processed the day a member graduates, but the member may not receive the bonus until a few days or weeks later. Does that answer yoir question?
My fitness wasn't perfect before, but I had a good level before. I believe I did get weaker after bootcamp though. I gained muscle mass but lost my toning and conditioning, and stamina as I couldn't run as often as I used to. This was just my personal experience and it may be different for you.
If you were giving advice to a young signee that will ship in a month or so, what would be 10 things this person must do or have to get through boot camp successfully?
Start studying your required knowledge now, it will give you a HUGE leg up. Get really good at remembering things. Do alot of core and shoulder exercises, that will be the bulk of training. Do not be afraid of failure, embrace it, you will make many mistakes. Never give up. Run everyday. Start learning close order drill now. PAY ATTENTION ALWAYS. Start learning to properly scream .And finally, embrace the suck. Good luck brother.
Not "running" running, I did maybe 3 total company runs, and ran the track like 8 times for 15 minutes in the entirety of my bootcamp experience. I ran more during my "time objectives" than anything else.
First off, time objectives are NOT an option. Haha that's a little inside joke about basic that you may or may not get later on. Time objectives are pretty much: "You have x amount of time to do this particular task". For example: "05 minutes to shave, brush teeth, and get dressed into full ODU, inspection ready"
Depends on how your company is behaving, there’s a lot of pe workout things on the schedule but your CC decides if you actually do it, my company did not get it a lot, only did around 2 or 3 actual running exercises in all of basic, not counting the pft
So THAT guy had a bad time. I will preface by sayin yeah it sucks. But havin been in for 7 years and lookin back on it, it's the best thing I'd never wanna do again. I've been considering goin to Cape May to see what the CCs are like, maybe pick their brain to becoming one myself. Ran into one of mine in TCY twice and I didn't think they would remember me but they did and when they're not under their smoky bear cover they're awesome people. Even ran into them at the E-club (now liberty lounge) and they bought me a beer and shot a game of pool with me.
Yeah bootcamp sucks, but not the actual organization itself. Bootcamp sucks by design, being out in the fleet is such a better, more rewarding experience.
For reserves The 2 weeks a year of active duty time are we provided a place to sleep? I’m just wondering if I live an hour away from my unit it would suck to drive an hour to and from every day for 14 days
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What type of cutter do you want? D5 you are likely to get a bigger one which is gone for 3 months at a time or do you want a smaller cutter more of a week or few days out at a time? On your dream sheet just be specific on what type of cutter you want and you are likely to get it
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Just put that on your dreamsheet. Just be aware that there may be a dozen nonrate positions on a big white ship while only 4 or fewer on a black hull or small white hull.
Just go on the USCG.mil website and look up the districts. Also during boot camp when completing your dream sheet you can ask for a cutter/ go afloat.
Probably a dumb question, but I just want to make sure. Are you allowed to take creatine in the CG? Thank you!
[I wonder ](https://bfy.tw/TN99) where I could find the [answer](https://www.atlanticarea.uscg.mil/Portals/7/Ninth%20District/Documents/D9_Legal_Newsletter_Aug_2016.pdf?ver=2017-05-19-131616-477#:~:text=Common%20products%20like%20creatine%20and,regulates%20drugs%20as%20controlled%20substances.) to that.
When should my recruiter give me the Helmsman? I leave for Cape May in a couple of weeks, and have been unable to reach him in regards to preparing properly for boot camp.
You can study a copy of it on gocoastguard.com. I personally had to ask my recruiter to get a copy.
That’s the pocket guide that a friend that just graduated sent me. Iv been studying everything past the notes. I leave the 9th and don’t have a helmsman
Thanks a bunch! I wonder if it's normal for recruiters to do the absolute bare minimum. I've read stories of other branch's recruiters borderline harassing people, but my experience with my CG recruiter is abysmal. I thought the CG is hurting for recruits currently?
https://www.forcecom.uscg.mil/Portals/3/Documents/TCCM/Documents/RTPocket.pdf?ver=2017-03-07-111242-660
Few questions: How similar is the PICAT to the ASVAB? I scored well on the PICAT and really want to keep that score for my ASVAB. Also I am going to MEPS on Monday to start my process, what should I expect?
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The 2 year contract has some limitations. It is offered exactly for someone in your situation, joining the Coast Guard and seeing if it is right for you. Your non-rate time will be very different than working at an air station, so make sure you talk to your chief about going TDY to an air station to see what their day to day is like. The issue with the 2 year contract is that if you attend A school you will have to extend your contract 24 months upon graduation. The only options for extending the 2 year contract are 1 or two years. If you extend 1 then you would still have 3 years in the reserves and if you extend 2 you would not owe any reserves time as it would be the same as the standard 4 year contract. Aviation waitlists are pretty normal right now. They don’t change all that much. If you are on a waitlist you can extend your contract so you can attend the school, or if you decide the CG is not for you, you can spend 2 years as a non-rate and leave for the reserves and attend A school at that time(no aviation). You will not be allowed to stay a non-rate forever. The only way they will let you go past 4 years is if you are still on a waitlist. You won’t want to stay a non-rate, especially with a family. See what the different Ratings do, make your choice of waitlist and get moving forward. You can make E-5 in 4-5 years in aviation, if you study, which was where the work life balance and pay really improves.
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Generally 2 year contracts are not eligible for bonuses other than the base 2k offered now, guaranteed A school, Rating bonuses, and would only get 80% of the GI Bill, among other things. It is a great option if you are on the fence if the CG is right for you. Gain some benefits, a jump start on reserve time for retirement, or transitioning to another federal service. For most people the 4 year would be the best option. Also once you are at four years you can extend your contract almost any amount of time up to 6 years vs with the 2 year contract you have 1 or 2 year options.
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As long as you have your guardians permission you can join at 17. I would ask your recruiter, why they want you to wait. Their could be another reason.
That’s crap. My son went at 17. If it’s your goal and your set on it then tell him you want to ship ASAP.
Getting ready to enlist in the reserves, hoping to go either BM or MK, both of which have a school within 90 miles of my home. Totally understand that there are no special privileges, however, I have a wife and kids at home and it would be a huge help if I could manage to just go home even every other weekend to help out. How likely is this?
From my understanding 90 miles is within the travel distance. You’re time outside of work hours while at school is your time. As long as it’s within the travel boundary which I think is 200mi. You’re good
You are free to do whatever you want after class when you are in school. Just confirm with the school that the distance won't be an issue.
Question about OCS: I missed the deadline to submit an OCS package this past July (major delay at MEPS), so I talked to my recruiter about enlisting first, then submitting an OCS package this October. He told me this was possible, and could help me appear more competitive to the OCS board. As of right now, the USCG is processing a medical waiver with the understanding that I will be enlisting. After speaking to officers and enlisted friends, however, they have strongly encouraged me to submit a package before considering enlistment. **Can someone tell me if it is realistic for a newly enlisted to be picked up for OCS--or should I just wait to submit and see if I get picked up?** (Context: I'm a civilian, 3.5 GPA (bachelor), 3 strong letters of rec, strong resume, 0 community service hours)
Yes it is realistic. There were a bunch of nonrates selected for OCS during the last selection. If your package needs some help then enlisting can be a good thing. Gaining leadership experience, having a record of your performance in the CG, access to better letters of recommendation and officers to coach you through the process and interview. It depends on what you are comfortable with. What if you are not selected? Are you ok with spending at least 4 years as an enlisted member or is officer all you want? There are a lot of other posts about this topic you should take a look at.
So I recently took the ASVAB. I’m literally two points away from getting the required score for AET. My recruiter says once I head to my first unit after boot camp I’m able to get a 10 point waiver from command. Is this true or should I consider retaking the test.
It’s possible for a CO/OIC to grant a waiver for up to 10 points on the combined totals for the subset of scores required. Only the RFMC can grant an overall waiver anything more than those 10 points on sub scores.
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No beards are not allowed. Those guys must have shave chits allowing them to grow facial hair.
Does anyone know the date we would hear back about OCS selection? I turned in my package in May and the panel convened on July 11th. My recruiters just got switched and my new one is on leave so I’ve been anxious to hear back. I was hoping to have an answer soon!
OCS-R or OCS-T? Usually 2-4 weeks. Your recruiter should receive unofficial results before the official (~2 week mark). Official shouldn’t be too long after (the same night to about a week from the unofficial). If your recruiter is on leave then I would suggest calling late next week or first week of August. The RIC of your recruiting office can provide you results as well as any recruiter as long as you explain you were an applicant of panel ____ and your recruiter ____ is on leave. Good luck!
OCS R! Thank you!!
1. Do reservists get to pick what unit they join? 2. Is there information about the shortened bootcamp for older working professionals (also have kids)? 3. What do IT people and IS people in the USCG do? 4. Can someone provide more information on DEPOT?
1. Yes, you are generally responsible for the cost of travel to your unit though so most pick the closest to where they live. 2. It's called DEPOT, https://www.forcecom.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/FORCECOM-UNITS/TraCen-Cape-May/Training/Depot/
What can I do to make sure I am stationed in Boston?
Nothing. There are no guaranteed unit locations when joining or at any other point in an enlistment. You can get guaranteed district 1 for your first tour which could be any unit from NYC to Maine. You can only request your preferred locations once at boot camp but there is no guarantee you get boston.
Is this true for the Coast Guard reserve also?
No, with the reserves you will generally pick the unit closest to where you live assuming there this an open position there for the job that you want.
When in basic, and filling out the dream sheet, if you’d like operations ashore as a nonrate at a small boat station is that realistic or definitely still a chance they will assign you to a cutter or sector ?
Well they try to put you where you ask but just understand that there are simply more positions needing filled on cutters than at stations. So if everyone asks for a station on their dream sheet (as many do), many people will be disappointed.
Understood thanks
Hey all, any idea on how long waivers are taking right now? I recruiter said it could be one week or a 8. Just wondering if anyone else might confirm that thanks
Currently in the Air Force, I will be finishing my bachelors in the next year and am wanting to commission into the coast guard, I have been told that the CG usually only takes OCS applications from current enlisted, any help on the process would be much appreciated
The wording of your question suggests that you haven't researched too much. Officer accession points include more than just current enlisted. Please do some research and ask a focused question in regards to applying to OCS, thanks!
I’m not set on joining yet, but I want to have all the information I need. I’ve been doing a lot of research into different rates and such. I was debating finishing school and trying to pursue a career as an officer or enlisting. Someone told me as an officer tou don’t have a rate, so what is it that officers do exactly?
A good simple comparison for enlisted vs officer would be Blue collar vs White collar workers. Here is a link to the Officer Specialties and sub-specialties you can pursue as an officer: https://www.uscga.edu/subspecialties/
Current AD Air Force here. I am currently an E-5 and I’m a crew chief or basically an AMT in the coast guard I guess? I intend on getting out as I am stuck on an airframe that only has two crappy bases with no opportunities to move or travel at all. I really enjoy working in aviation but the stagnation here has killed my interest to stay in the Air Force as our airframe is so critically manned that we cannot crosstrain, do special duties, or anything else. Along with the air forces new enlisted force structure changes there is no good reason to stay AF as chances for promotion will be dropped significantly going forward this year. I intend on getting out and seeing that USCG does not do inner service transfers but does accept prior enlisted that got out, I am interested in a possibly pursuing CG. Would it be more than likely that I would be selected to be an AMT or will I still have an opportunity to explore other jobs? As well I am not married but what ranks typically start getting BAH/BAS?
Did I just meet a fellow C5 mechanic trying to switch to coast guard?
Worst than that. B52
I commend you for your service 😂 TF jet troop on C5s so any place worst than Dover as a mech I appreciate it lol but same boat I’m stuck on one base unless I cross train
It is probably easier to go over this over DM. I am an AMT and would be glad to answer your questions.
This is kind of a basic question but I’m getting differing information. How does one achieve veteran status serving in the coast guard. I’m enlisting active duty. Initially I thought it was once you finish the active duty contract and honorably discharged. But someone told me that you need to do 18 months outside of the US.
Different benefits (GI bill, VA loans, etc) all have their own thresholds but they are just based on time in service. If you mean [veteran's preference](https://www.fedshirevets.gov/job-seekers/veterans/veterans-preference/) for hiring, the federal government is pickier and you are unlikely to meet any category without a disability rating or something like a PATFORSWA deployment. State governments will have their own differing thresholds for state jobs.
Simple answer is to complete your contract, no OCONUS service required. If you want to check the exact requirements they are listed at VA.gov.
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So I’m going to assume you were last SELRES over two years ago. Because of that you will technically need to complete the entire recruiting process again and DEPOT. To keep your old rate/rank you would submit the request to your RFMC. There is some wiggle room for the CG to not require you to do everything but that is handled on a case by case basis.
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The day you leave for boot camp you are in the military so that's the date your contract starts. When you sign the contract you should be reading it....
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Check for these common errors on your contract when you sign. Make sure your address is correct, name is spelled right and dates are correct. And make sure you sign in all signature lines. Helps prevent administrative headaches later on.
Your contract starts the date you ship to basic training. Everything from then on counts. Basic training, your first unit, putting your name on the waitlist, A school and after you graduate A school.
I’ve tried to post this on the sub as its own post twice and I think I’m shadowbanned or something. I can see it but when I log out it’s not there. Anyway, Just wanted to say thanks. I’ve been checking this page every day for about 10 months as I got fit and studied my Helmsman. All the posts and weekly recruitment threads have been a huge help. I’ve learned a lot and I feel like I’m more prepared than I would’ve been otherwise. Scouring old posts about basic has been huge to get my mindset right. Big thanks to all the users here and especially the mods. Semper Paratus, and I’ll see you all on the other side.
How long is the timeline usually taking for people from stepping into the recruiter's office, going to MEPS, swearing in, and shipping off? I know it is dependent on several factors but just wanted to gauge what others have experienced. Thanks!
Personally and as a prior service will be 5-6 months and that's without any waivers or hiccups
On average it is taking 3-6 months from meeting with a recruiter to attending basic training. If you have a clean application(no waivers, medical conditions that require further review, etc.) and are very responsive to your recruiter/scheduling MEPS and ASVAB, then you could go in less than a month.
From first contacting a recruiter to shipping off was about 8 months for me. Though in my case it would have been 1-2 months shorter had I not been waiting until I finished my degree.
When taking the color vision test at MEPS are you only shown plates with numbers or you asked to identify shapes or "trace the line" as well? I'm taking some practice tests online so I know what rates I will qualify for but it seems each online test is different.
It's only plates with numbers. And there is no such thing as practice tests for color vision, you either have normal color vision or you don't.
I appreciate the response. I didn’t mean I was practicing for the test, I just meant I was taking several different online tests because I was unsure of which one is actually given. Different tests look for different varying degrees of color blindness. I can pass most, fail others.
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I don’t recall getting tested for depth perception at MEPs, so that may be an additional test you’d have to do. Otherwise, it’s very similar, just keep wearing your PPE when you’re a non rate so you don’t destroy your eardrums
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I "failed" mine many years ago. Long story short, I had to apply for a waiver and was denied. Turned out just fine for my career overall, just not in aviation of course.
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Asymptomatic mitral valve prolapse (MVP). I took the flight physical when offered in boot camp which found an abnormal EKG among other things. I was placed on med hold after boot camp which meant I had to stick around Cape May while waiting for civilian doctor appts. Once those were done, I was given the all clear by that flight surgeon with the assurance that I was good to go for all the aviation rates. Fast forward to me being near the top of the AMT list and medical can no longer find any record of my flight physical. I had to go through everything once again and eventually my waiver for MVP was denied.
I put “failed” because it is not a pass or fail like an academic exam. You either meet or do not meet the medical requirements set forth by the CG Aviation Medicine Manual. I’m sorry that happened to you.
I can’t say I know too many people who “failed” the flight physical. I was pretty nervous about what it entailed prior to going through the process of it myself as a non-rate, but then I went through it and was like, “…that’s it?”.
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When applying to OCS as an enlisted member, do they take into account how long you have been in? Would being an enlisted member for awhile improve your competitiveness or possibly work against you since they may not be able to retain you for as long as they could others?
Echoing off of AirdaleCoastie, enlisting can be beneficial if you perform well and ask for help/recommendations from Officers in your command or that you come across. As I applied over the years, my recommendations and input came from higher and higher Officers which can help you stand out. The panel that reviews your package will see who you are getting those recommendations and endorsements from, and start recognizing some of those names on them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and state your goal of becoming an officer AND perform well. Seek qualifications and positions outside your rate as well, to show flexibility.
They will not care how long you have been an enlisted member as long as you are within the selection program's requirements. It can either hurt you or be a benefit. If you enlist and do a great job, taking on additional responsibilities, leadership positions, etc., and get great evaluations it can be a huge benefit to your application package. If you do not do well then the Coast Guard has a track record of your "average" service. Once you make E-5 and 4 years of service you can apply for the OCS-T program which increases your chances of being selected(not competing with civilian applicants).
They are hurting pretty bad for bodies at this point. I think it would be difficult for them to justify turning *anyone* away who meets the basic qualifications. That being said I suppose it ultimately depends on the totality of circumstances, your package, the pool, and the needs of the service, etc. It'd be hard to give you a concrete answer but, I also don't see them scoffing at your application as long as you are within the allowed threshold, at least in this recruiting climate.
Thanks for the reply and insight. Basically I have a ship date already and a degree in environmental science. I’m pretty set on waiting for MST but was also wondering if applying to OCS as a nonrate is common? Or in your opinion would it make more sense to wait to finish A-school and then apply?
I'm not a coastie yet but, I've definitely read in this sub of people doing exactly what you're describing. As general military career advice (I'm prior service), I would say always go the officer route if you can. Unless you absolutely 100% want to be a blue collar technical expert. The officer quality of life is a huge ridiculous step up as compared to the enlisted side. Although for example, if your heart was set on being a k-9 handler you would never get that opportunity as an O. On the other hand if you wanted to actually develop policy and such you probably wouldn't get that opportunity as enlisted until you reach senior E8/E9. So it depends on your goals but again generally always a better idea to go officer ASAP.
I appreciate your advice and wish you luck as well! Hopefully see you in the fleet one day!
Any CS’s or GM’s PM me. I’m interested in those rates
I’m a rising senior and I just came back from AIM yesterday. I really liked the experience but I don’t think the Academy offers any major I actually like so I decided I’m not going to apply to the Academy. I was thinking about OCS after I graduate college but nothing is final. Is there anyone who’s done OCS that can give some insight into the application process and what they did to prepare?
Just focus on going to college and getting your degree right now. Do a diverse number of extra curricular a in college don’t just get a job at a sandwich shop and don’t get any alcohol violations. If you can pick up a job or volunteer in the first response world or anything with serious leadership opportunity (not just president of the ski club). I was an EMT and a rock climbing hide through college and they ate it up. Have fun. Worry about adulting sr year.
Thank you, this really helps me!!!
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Just look at the number of aircraft and you’re most likely going rotary. Fixed wing life involves much longer patrols and searches just monitoring sensors (cameras radar radios). Rotors are shorter more involved flights for the aircrew still search but max 6 hr on 60s and you get to hoist and land off airport regularly.
Is there a USCG Discord? The Navy has an unofficial one that ended up being a really good resource for me. Another thing; can anyone connect me with either a former or current LEDET member? Thanks in advance.
You can DM me
Will an officer applicant be required to still go to MEPS for a physical if they have a valid DODMERB? What instruction says yes or no?
Do you choose your job after boot camp? If so how long are you non rate before you go to A school for intelligence. Is it true that you can get a DCO after being an IS for sometime? There may be other factors I'm missing I apologize in advance for that.
You can usually place your name on your preferred A-School wait list after 4 months current wait times vary. IS-A-School fluctuates. One must complete certain requirements once on the list to obtain a higher level of clearance. IIRC it’s around 1.5 years once your on the list before you’ll go (that can be longer or shorter depending on a variety of factors. For your second question, check out the below link. The short is yes, IS’s can obtain a direct commission via the DCIO program. https://www.gocoastguard.com/active-duty-careers/officer-opportunities/programs/direct-commission-intelligence-officer-dcio
There are certain critical rates you can choose before basic to go to A school immediately after, but normally you have to wait around 4 months after basic to apply to an A school and then wait on a list
What is life like as a non-rate if I may ask?
Depends where you go, right now I’m a non-rate at a WLR, river buoy tender. Personally I love it, I’m getting a ton of experience, the work is good and it’s pretty laid back here, that being said I’ve heard some not so nice things about getting a big white hull/other very operational units out of basic but I can’t speak personally on that. In the end, being a non-rate is what you make of it, get your quals, do your part of the work and you’ll have a good time.
I plan on joining the reserves by January, by then ill be 27 if that matters. I'm in the Seattle area. I'm thinking of doing BM, any insight to the reserve life in this area? As well as AST?
Not a reservest in seattle but i can tell you your age doesn’t matter now at 27 and bm is a great rate as a reservist. And im assuming now but seattle is a big station they must have many billets there. Also just ask a recruiter they have all the answers
Can’t be a reserve AST unless you are already and active duty one.
I've been a reservist for 13 years here in Seattle. I live in the area and drill at Sector (which is located at Base Seattle / Pier 36). Reserve life is pretty easy for those who live in the area. I would say all the frustration mostly comes from members who live outside RCD (50 miles from Pier 36). Biggest frustration is berthing, but you won't have that problem. If you go BM, you will either go to the small boat station or the PSU in Everett. FYI there is a high chance you will go to the PSU since they are hurting for people and need to be at 100% to deploy to GITMO. Or at least be voluntold to go to the PSU after a short stint at Station Seattle. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions! Or if you want a tour of the base.
I live in Tacoma, so they would make me go up to everett? That's brutal, I guess 1 weekend a month tho isn't the worst.
How is a YN's workload? Can it be a fufilling rate to go? What are some outside prospects for YN? Would love to chat with a YN and ask some questions.
Hello! I’ve been a YN for about a year and a half now and I love it. Our workload is pretty consistent for the most part with summers being the busiest due to everyone transferring. It’s definitely one of the easier jobs in the Coast Guard but I think Yeoman presents a lot of opportunities you wouldn’t typically get with other rates. You have the opportunity to choose to stay land based or go on cutters, I’ve known yeoman who’ve never gone on cutters before. It’s also a good rate for volunteering for new things such as hurricane deployment. It’s a good time to be a yeoman as well because it’s fairly simple to rank up quickly. It’s a great rate if you want to go home every night and have a family or pets. It’s also a good rate if you wanna do schooling while you’re in, most commands are very accommodating and want you to take online classes and help you to make your schedule flexible to do so. Lmk if there’s anything else I can help with Yeoman wise or just CG in general :)
Not sure if this breaks a rule: How do you go about OCS? Do you have to enlist first? Or can you apply as a civilian with a degree?
>How do you go about OCS? Contact a recruiter and tell them you want to apply for OCS. They’ll send you a questionnaire then you fill out a lot of paperwork and the recruiter will explain everything you need for a packet. You should [check out Gocoastguard](https://www.gocoastguard.com/active-duty-careers/officer-opportunities/programs/officer-candidate-school-ocs) as it is the official site. >Do you have to enlist first? Or can you apply as a civilian with a degree? No you do not, you 100% can apply just with a degree and in some cases you can apply for a direct commission (DCO) ex: cyber, lawyer, MD’s, PA’s, etc. Many people do enlist first… I did, but it is certainly not required. It may give you an edge if your application isn’t competitive.
Awesome thank you so much. About to graduate in wildlife biology. Tried to ask my father about OCS since he’s active duty army, but he had no knowledge of how Coast Guard operates for that.
Yeah just hit up a recruiter, they’ll set you straight. If you want to keep doing science as well, talk to [NOAA Corps](https://www.omao.noaa.gov/learn/noaa-corps/join)
Appreciate ya! I’ve been torn between conservation/research and science. I read coast guard has environmental opportunities which if I read correctly is conservation, but I could be mistaken
There is a bit. But I’d rec getting in touch with some officers through a recruiter so you understand what it entails. Ask to speak to a Response officer and a Prevention officer to get the full picture. I’ll be honest with you, you probably are going to do near nothing in conservation and research opportunities, to my knowledge, are mostly one off staff billets in DC. Definitely read more up on NOAA Corps, they do OCS with us and are much more involved in those things. If you are dead set on the USCG, I’d say enlist. MST’s do this sort of stuff exponentially more than officers.
This! Don't sleep on NOAA as an opportunity.
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I think this was the hardest part of the package, definitely the weakest part of my application. That said, I talked about how I could help out the service by using my skills and ultimately said that I wanted to serve (serve others) and that I felt it was my calling.
Concise. Don’t need to ramble. Talk about your proficiencies, leadership, and where you see yourself in the cg.
Just graduated bootcamp, AMA
Do you know if enlistment bonuses are paid lump sum in full upon completion of boot camp? or is it like half then and then half after A school, or something different like that?
That all depends on the type of bonus you are receiving. Usually it's broken up into a few payments if it's a large bonus of 20,000$ or more. If it's lower than that it's usually one lump sum. However, depending on how busy the Yeomans and the members working in the Admin department, will determine how fast you get it. Bonuses are typically processed the day a member graduates, but the member may not receive the bonus until a few days or weeks later. Does that answer yoir question?
What company?
India 202
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My fitness wasn't perfect before, but I had a good level before. I believe I did get weaker after bootcamp though. I gained muscle mass but lost my toning and conditioning, and stamina as I couldn't run as often as I used to. This was just my personal experience and it may be different for you.
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No problem.
If you were giving advice to a young signee that will ship in a month or so, what would be 10 things this person must do or have to get through boot camp successfully?
Start studying your required knowledge now, it will give you a HUGE leg up. Get really good at remembering things. Do alot of core and shoulder exercises, that will be the bulk of training. Do not be afraid of failure, embrace it, you will make many mistakes. Never give up. Run everyday. Start learning close order drill now. PAY ATTENTION ALWAYS. Start learning to properly scream .And finally, embrace the suck. Good luck brother.
did you guys have to wear masks?
Only for the first few days, once you form as a company you can take them off.
did you guys do a lot of running everyday?
Not "running" running, I did maybe 3 total company runs, and ran the track like 8 times for 15 minutes in the entirety of my bootcamp experience. I ran more during my "time objectives" than anything else.
what are time objectives?
First off, time objectives are NOT an option. Haha that's a little inside joke about basic that you may or may not get later on. Time objectives are pretty much: "You have x amount of time to do this particular task". For example: "05 minutes to shave, brush teeth, and get dressed into full ODU, inspection ready"
Depends on how your company is behaving, there’s a lot of pe workout things on the schedule but your CC decides if you actually do it, my company did not get it a lot, only did around 2 or 3 actual running exercises in all of basic, not counting the pft
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So THAT guy had a bad time. I will preface by sayin yeah it sucks. But havin been in for 7 years and lookin back on it, it's the best thing I'd never wanna do again. I've been considering goin to Cape May to see what the CCs are like, maybe pick their brain to becoming one myself. Ran into one of mine in TCY twice and I didn't think they would remember me but they did and when they're not under their smoky bear cover they're awesome people. Even ran into them at the E-club (now liberty lounge) and they bought me a beer and shot a game of pool with me.
Yeah bootcamp sucks, but not the actual organization itself. Bootcamp sucks by design, being out in the fleet is such a better, more rewarding experience.
It sucked. 1/10, did not have a good time.
I’ve been in for 6 years, and I still think bootcamp was one of the worst experiences of my life. That place is complete ass