Frequently Asked Questions

How many days a week do I have to wear my uniform to classes?

MIDN and Marine Options wear the uniform of the day on Wednesdays when we have drill that evening. The uniform that will be worn will vary based upon the battalion’s decision.

What does Physical Training consist of?

Physical training for Navy MIDN occurs with each individual’s company on Monday and with the entire Battalion on Wednesday. For Marine Options, Physical training occurs Monday through Thursday every week. The training consists of a variety of bodyweight exercises that will prepare you for the Physical Readiness Test at the end of each semester.

What are Navy-required classes (to maintain a scholarship)? What’s the minimum GPA standard?

The Navy science curriculum is specified on the website which can be found directly from this link. If on scholarship, the minimum GPA standard you need to maintain is 2.5, however, if your GPA drops below 3.0 you will be placed on mandatory study hours.

Can I join if I am enrolled at Saint Mary’s or Holy Cross? 

Yes. Saint Mary’s and Holy Cross students can participate in ND NROTC.

What is the difference between being a College Programmer vs a Scholarship Student? 

Scholarship benefits are listed here. A College Programmer does not receive these benefits, but still participates as a member of the Battalion; Programmers also have the opportunity to compete for a 2 or 3-year scholarship.

What can I do to best prepare myself for my transition from civilian to ROTC student? 

Before arriving at an ROTC unit, students should train to pass the PRT (Physical Readiness Test). The PRT consists of a timed plank, a 2-minute pushup test, and a 1.5-mile run. Specific guidelines and scores for passing the PRT as well as a training guide can be found on the Navy ROTC website.

Who should I contact if I’m interested in joining? 

You can visit the NROTC scholarship website for information about applying for a scholarship or locating and contacting a specific unit. 

Does ROTC require me to pick a specific major?

When applying for a scholarship, you will be required to select a major you are interested in completing. Majors are divided into three tiers based on the navy’s need for those majors. Approximately 85% of NROTC scholarships will be awarded to prospective students interested in tier one or tier two majors. For more information, you can visit the NROTC scholarship website

Are there any ROTC opportunities or requirements over the summer?

A significant portion of midshipmen’s professional training during their four-year curriculum is received during summer training. Midshipmen participate in summer training their freshman through junior summers. Each evolution offers a different opportunity for midshipmen to build their confidence in warfare community selections.

Is it possible to join ROTC without a scholarship?

Absolutely. Students interested in joining NROTC are encouraged to look into becoming college program midshipmen. These students are provided uniforms and Naval Science textbooks but are not eligible for summer training and other scholarship benefits. College program midshipmen are eligible to apply for two and three-year scholarships upon meeting the scholarship requirements

Does ROTC cover the cost of textbooks?

ROTC provides $325 per semester for textbooks and other materials. 

What is the NROTC Prep Program? 

The NROTC Preparatory Programs (NPP) Office’s mission is to expand NROTC opportunities to produce more diverse representation and capable Naval Officers. The office supports talented and motivated disadvantaged students who lack competitive academic resumes. Preparatory programs assist these students in closing preparedness gaps with typical applicants to the most selective university STEM programs. Detailed information on the various preparatory programs can be found on the NROTC Preparatory Programs page

 What fitness requirements should I look forward to?

Military service is a physically demanding profession and requires a high degree of physical preparedness and a healthy constitution. Physical and scholarship qualification processes are independent of each other, but students must receive a favorable endorsement in both to receive a Naval ROTC scholarship. 

Does the NROTC scholarship cover room and board cost?

No, the NROTC scholarship will not cover the cost of room and board at the University of Notre Dame.

Who can I reach out to if I have any questions about things outside of ROTC  or something that I wouldn’t be comfortable asking by emailing an officer?

Send an email to the prospective student liaison, found here.