CHAPLAIN CANDIDATE PROGRAM
Explore The Vocation Of A Chaplain
You do not need to wait until ordination to join the Army chaplaincy. Through the Chaplain Candidate Program, you can train to become an Army chaplain at the same time you are training for the ministry.
The training and experience you receive as a chaplain candidate will supplement your ministerial education and training. All chaplain candidates are commissioned officers assigned to the Army Reserve, or Army National Guard in the chaplain branch.
JOIN OUR RANKS WHILE STUDYING FOR THE MINISTRY
By participating in the Chaplain Candidate Program, you will get a head start on entering the Army as a chaplain. You will also enjoy the many benefits and privileges associated with being an Army officer.
Chaplain Basic Officer Leadership Course
All Chaplain Candidates must attend the Chaplain Basic Officer Leader Course (CHBOLC), which is an intensive, entry-level, initial military training process for newly acquired chaplains and Chaplain Candidates.
This course provides an opportunity for professional, physical, academic, and spiritual growth.
Paid Practicums
Chaplain candidates train up to 30 days each year under the supervision of a senior chaplain. This training is offered to all candidates once they have completed phase one of the Chaplain Basic Officer Leader Course.
Practicums vary in type and location. They include broad-based experiences at active duty installations, the United States Military Academy, ROTC’s cadet summer camp, Army Reserve commands, garrison ministries, combat ministries, and medical ministries.
Practicums may be completed according to the student’s schedule.
Chaplain Candidate Requirements
To be eligible for this program, you must:
- Obtain an ecclesiastical approval from your denomination or faith group.
- Possess a baccalaureate degree with at least 120 semester hours (College seniors can apply before completion of their undergraduate program).
- Be a full-time graduate student at an accredited seminary or theological school.
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be able to receive a security clearance.
- Pass a physical exam at a Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS).
- Be between 18-36 years old at time of commissioning.
ROTC Education Delay Program For Chaplaincy Studies
The ROTC Education Delay Program permits ROTC cadets to apply for a delay of their Active Duty Service Obligation in order to become an Army chaplain.
Cadets normally apply for an education delay at the same time and on the same form (FORM 67-9) that they use to submit their choice of a branch selection, usually between the months of May and September before their senior year of college. The Army approves education delays on a case-by-case basis through a board process.
Once a cadet is granted an education delay by U.S. Army Cadet Command, her or she must submit an application packet for a Chaplain Candidate Accessions Board. Should the cadet not be accessed by this board, or should the cadet neglect to submit an application for accessing, the cadet would then be branched by USACC in accordance to their original obligation.
Once a cadet is accessed as a Chaplain Candidate, they are entitled to all the benefits of and responsibilities of the CCP except Tuition Assistance. Cadets can contact their PMS, the Chaplain Candidate Manager or a Chaplain Recruiter.
