MARINE ENLISTED COMMISSIONING EDUCATION PROGRAM

The MECEP is designed to provide outstanding enlisted Marines the opportunity to become Marine Corps officers. MECEP is open to all active duty Marines and Marines in the Active Reserve (AR) program who meet the eligibility requirements. Marines successfully completing the program receive a Baccalaureate Degree and a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. Selection is based on an individual’s potential for commissioned service as demonstrated by his/her service record, previous academic record, and evidence of career and academic self-improvement.

Basic eligibility requirements for the program are as follows:

At least 20 years of age but less than 26
Ranked in the top 50% of high school class or with a GED score of 75
SAT score with a minimum of 1000, ACT with a minimum of 22 composite score, or an AFQT of 74

MCO 1560.15L

FY06 MARADMIN 047/05

Commonly asked questions are answered here.

1.
How much of a load do I have to take while I’m at UVA?
Marines are required to maintain at least 12 credit hours every spring and fall semester. During the summer you are required to complete 6 credit hours except for the summer you attend OCS. A class will also be taken during our one month summer and winter breaks unless you take leave.
2.
Am I integrated into the NROTC Battalion or independent of them?
You are a member of the battalion, assigned either as a platoon member or as a billet holder from squad leader to battalion commander. As with Officer Candidates (Navy commissionees), your experiences as an enlisted man or woman will be used to guide younger members and to set the example for the entire battalion. Any hopes of being independent from a school will lead to a difficult time at OCS. Our UVA MOI and AMOI are here to help with your transition in becoming a Marine Corps Officer.
3.
What about pay? What should I expect?
Your pay is the same as it was in the fleet. You will draw base pay, BAS, and BAH as usual. You will also have the option to draw on your G.I. Bill; however, the rules are slightly different. You are not allowed to draw the full amount. Instead, the G.I. Bill will pay the full amount of your tuition and no more. In another words, if tuition is $2,400 for the semester, you will be paid $2,400 in additional income from Veteran’s Affairs. You also may apply for any scholarships you desire and apply for financial aid at FAFSA. You may also apply for any scholarships.
4.
Can I get promoted while in the program?
Absolutely. If you are a Corporal, you will be promoted to Sergeant once you meet TIG/TIS requirements, regardless of the cutting score. As a Sergeant or SNCO, you will look at your previous MOS’s zones and will be non-competitively promoted accordingly. The Marine Corps Promotion Manual has more information on MECEP promotions. Keep in mind also that if you are removed from the program, you’ll return to the fleet with whatever rank you left it as.
5.
When will I attend OCS?
After completion of your first year, you will attend a six-week program at MCB Quantico, Virginia. The MOI and AMOI will properly prepare you for OCS through classes and rigorous PT. You will have no doubt of your full potential before you leave for OCS. You will be prepared for a successful OCS experience.