ROTC Interest in the Common App

Applying to College
1

Hey friends,

I’m currently in the process of finishing up some applications for the January Deadline, and I have a question regarding ROTC related questions for different universities.

Cornell, for example words their ROTC question as “Are you interested in participating in any of these programs (competing for a scholarship or just attending some classes),” which, to my knowledge, is Cornell gauging interest in whether or not one would be interested in the ROTC program. However, universities, such as Duke, word their ROTC questions as “Have you applied or plan to apply for an ROTC scholarship?”

In the cases such as Duke, would those be considered “binding” ROTC interests? As in, if one were to be accepted to Duke they would be obligated to complete the ROTC program (as well as service afterwards) or is it similar to Cornell where you are only stating your interest for the program?

Thank you all in advance.

2

I don’t think it can be binding since the ROTC award process is separate. Duke doesn’t know if you’ll get an ROTC scholarship or, in the case of Army or Air Force, if it’ll be a full ride (the acceptance rate for full rides in Air Force is almost at Duke’s level). GO ahead and select the option, it won’t bind you. Have you applied yet for ROTC?

3

I selected the option for Cornell, and have applied for the ROTC Scholarship, listing Cornell as my first choice. Does this selection improve my chances of admission? Why is it in the common app as a question in the first place if not to demonstrate interest or that they may have to pay you less financial aid in case you’ll get a scholarship?