Accessing ROTP And NCM Step programs as OUTCAN families

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should I apply?
  Start early!! The staff at RMC and CFRG (Canadian Forces Recruiting Group) suggest that candidates start their applications earlier than they might for civilian universities. It is best to start your CAF application in September. Be sure to click the PAID EDUCATION box when completing your application to indicate an interest in ROPT or NCM Step.
• How are the ROTP and NCM Step programs different?
  Officer Cadets complete a bachelor's degree program at RMC or a Civilian University. Students complete various components of their Military Training during their degree programs.
  
  NCM Step candidates complete their Basic Military Training (BMQ) upon acceptance into the CAF and then complete an accredited Trades program at a civilian college or university before beginning their full-time duties with the CAF. 
• What programs can I study?
  The ROTP, or Regular Officer Training Program, is the Officer training program for the CAF. Officer Cadets can complete a variety of degree programs through ROTP, all leading to specific types of careers.
  
  RMC program offerings: 

  • SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES
    • Business Administration
    • Economics
    • English, Culture, and Communication
    • History
    • Military and Strategic Studies
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • International Studies (at RMC Saint Jean)
    • International Exchanges
  • SCIENCES
    • Chemistry
    • Computer Science
    • Mathematics
    • Physics
    • Space Science
  • ENGINEERING
    • Aeronautical
    • Chemical
    • Civil
    • Computer
    • Electrical
    • Mechanical

  
  Discover program options for NCM Step candidates. 
• Do I have to pay for school?
  No. Paid education options are subsidized by the CAF. In return, students must complete service to the CAF upon completion of their schooling. The minimum service requirements range from 5 – 17 years depending on your career.
   
• Should I also apply to civilian schools?
  Yes. There are several reasons. You want to have a back-up educational plan in case you are not admitted into the CAF or RMC. Some students are admitted to the CAF but there are not enough spaces in RMC for them to attend school there. In those cases, they may have an opportunity to complete the Academic portion of their ROTP through a civilian university. 
  
  Students attending civilian universities would still need to meet their Basic Military Officer Qualifications (BMOQ) during the summers. Students attending civilian universities also have their education subsidized. 
  
  Those interested in NCM Step must apply to and be accepted into an approved program to participate in this paid education option. 
• What careers can I pursue through the CAF after completing ROTP?
  Visit the career opportunities to see the various CAF careers you can pursue. Note that some specialty career pathways require attendance at a civilian university as the educational programs are not offered at RMC. 
   
• Do I need to speak both English and French to attend enter ROTP?
  You do not need to speak both French and English to begin your officer training through ROTP. You will, however, have to demonstrate proficiency in both languages to graduate from your degree program.
• If I am living OUTCAN, will I need to return to Canada during the application process?
  You may need to return to Canada for some of the required testing. When possible, the staff at the Recruitment Centre will attempt to coordinate required return trips with natural school breaks.
  
  Student applying for any of the Air Crew careers will need to return to Canada to complete supplementary testing in Trenton.
• Once I start at RMC, am I committed to the program for 4 years?
  RMC and Military life are not for all students. If, at any time up until the end of your 1st year of university, you choose not to continue with your military training, you may leave the program without having to pay back the cost. 
  
  If you leave after the 1st year's end, you must reimburse the CAF for the expenses incurred for your schooling.