VMI boasts the largest ROTC program in the country where each year approximately 800 cadets enroll in Army ROTC (AROTC) and the George C. Marshall Battalion commissions more officers than any ROTC program in the nation.
As part of ROTC programming, upper-class Army cadets serve as leaders in the battalion at all levels and organize major training events such as spring and fall Field Training Exercises. All cadets start at the lower ranks and work their way up to the top through dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
The VMI system is designed to prepare qualified cadets for a military commission upon graduation, but even for those who choose not to commission, their involvement in Army ROTC helps them develop skills leading to success in all fields.
Cadets who select the Army ROTC program and intend to commission have the opportunity to attend training programs including Cadet Troop Leadership Training, where they serve in lieutenant-level positions with an active duty unit; the Cultural Understanding and Language Proficiency program, which provides cadets with the language and cultural skills to perform in global operations; and others, such as Airborne, Air Assault, Combat Diver, Mountain Warfare, or Northern Warfare.
Further Information
In addition to these webpages, a detailed overview of the Army ROTC program and financial opportunities is available to download: VMI Army ROTC Program Overview.
AROTC Fast Facts
The U.S. Army, a key component of the U.S. armed forces, is made up of the best trained, most dedicated, most respected soldiers in the world — protecting America’s freedoms at home and abroad, securing our homeland, and defending democracy worldwide.
Commission Rank
Second Lieutenant
Careers
Seventeen specialties and varied career paths.
Partner Schools
Mary Baldwin University – Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership (VWIL)
Southern Virginia University
Washington and Lee University
Army ROTC can help you
afford your degree.
For those planning on commissioning upon graduation, ROTC scholarships and other financial support opportunities are available.
Scholarship Options:
- National four- & three-year scholarships available out of high school. Application window opens mid-June for students entering their senior year of high school.
- Campus-based scholarships available (three-year, two and 1/2 year, and two-year).
- 100% of tuition and fees (in and out of state) or room and board + $1200 annual book allowance + $910 annual uniform allowance + $420 monthly stipend.
Army ROTC Information Brief: The benefits of non-scholarship contracting.
Learn more about these opportunities and requirements from the U.S. Army.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I choose Army ROTC VMI over other colleges and universities?
VMI Army ROTC is unique in its success rate of commissioning more officers than any other ROTC program in the United States. By joining the Blue Ridge Battalion, you are joining a unit dedicated to excellence and achievement, with strong faculty and cadet leadership. As a senior military college, VMI’s ROTC program can provide military training at a higher level than programs at civilian colleges and universities, and the 24-7 military nature of VMI provides leadership training and a path to excellence across all facets of the college experience.
Is there a military obligation during my college career?
During the first two years of the program, ROTC cadets have no military obligation (or the first year in the case of scholarship recipients).
How are scholarship recipients chosen?
ROTC scholarships are awarded on merit exhibited in academic achievement, and extracurricular activities.
Does ROTC benefit me if I choose not to commission?
The combination of academic and practical course work offered in the Army ROTC program enables students to sharpen both mind and body while pursuing such timeless ideals as discipline, honor, and respect. This preparation and development of leadership skills is beneficial in military and civilian careers.
Our Location
Army ROTC offices and classrooms are located in Kilbourne Hall at 535 N. Main St., Lexington, Va.
Building access cards are required, so please call the office, 540-464-7680, to arrange a visit. You can take a walkthrough of some of our spaces in VMI’s virtual tour and learn more about Army, and other ROTC programs, at the Institute. If you are on a mobile device, turn to landscape for the best experience.
