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How to apply to Air Force OTS

Officer Training School (OTS) is the commissioning route for college graduates who didn't go through AFROTC or the Academy. Requirements change, so the authority is always an officer recruiter; here is the general path and where the AFOQT fits.

Where the AFOQT fits

DAFMAN 36-2664 makes the AFOQT a commissioning requirement and notes that Total Force Officer Training selection boards consider AFOQT scores as one of several factors. Because you can retest only every 90 days (three attempts, the third by waiver), take your first attempt prepared — your best composites count, but time between attempts costs board cycles.

Preparing for the test

Start with the free diagnostic, set your test date for a day-by-day plan, and train the speed subtests on the real clock. Full guide: the AFOQT explained.

Apply to Air Force Officer Training School

  1. Contact an Air Force officer recruiter (airforce.com) and confirm current eligibility requirements for your situation.
  2. Schedule and take the AFOQT; plan your prep so you meet the minimums (Verbal 15, Quantitative 10) and, for rated jobs, the Pilot/CSO/ABM minimum of 25.
  3. Pilot or RPA applicants: take the TBAS so a PCSM score can be computed.
  4. Build your application package with your recruiter (transcripts, records, references, physical and other requirements they specify).
  5. Your package goes to a selection board, which considers AFOQT scores as one of several factors.

FAQ

Do you need the AFOQT for OTS?

Yes — the AFOQT is required for Air Force line-officer commissioning programs, including OTS.

Do I need to take the TBAS?

Only if you're applying for pilot or RPA pilot training; it's combined with your AFOQT Pilot score and flying hours into PCSM.

Know where you stand in 15–20 minutes

Free AFOQT diagnostic — no sign-up. Estimates are ours, clearly labelled.

Take the free diagnostic

Updated 2026-10-04. Facts are checked against primary sources — see methodology.