Commissioning Preparation
Congratulations on your upcoming commission. As you prepare to be minted a new Second Lieutenant of Marines, bear in mind the following:
- You will need to fill out a Request for Appointment (RFA) to set a date for your commissioning ceremony. This document also contains which class you would like to join at TBS--the sooner you file, the more likely you will receive the TBS class of your choice. If you have not filed this document, file it immediately. If you believe you have already filed a RFA, Contact our Office to confirm this as fact.
- You MUST score greater than a 280 on your final PFT before you are allowed to commission. Marine officers are expected to be exemplars of physical fitness--train accordingly.
- Ensure you have files for graduation at your respective institution. Do not allow your commissioning to be derailed on a technicality.
- Check with your university advisors to confirm you will meet all requirements for graduation. In addition, ensure you are earning at least C's in your final semester's classes. Marine Officers are expected to lead academically as well as tactically--failing to meet graduation standards will delay your commissioning.
- Contact your university registrar to obtain confirmation of your graduation. You will not be allowed to commission without clearance to graduate. If necessary, you may have to contact each of your professors and obtain certification that you will complete their class with satisfactory grades (C's or better).
- If you are going to commission in dress blues, ensure you have ordered the proper uniforms. Irrespective to which uniform you wear, ensure you have the proper uniform items and their proper fit. Marines pride themselves on the care and wear of their uniforms--as an officer, you will represent the Corps. Click on the following link for the most up-to-date Uniform Standards Guide available.
