If you are considering a career as a Regular Army officer, you can start the process by getting in touch with a an Army Careers Adviser (ACA for short). They’ll help you decide if the Army is right for you and advise you on how to start your application.
To find an ACA in your local area click here>>
If you are interested in applying to join as a Territorial officer, you can find out more about what’s involved by contacting your local unit or by visiting your nearest Army Careers Information Office (ACIO).
To find an ACIO in your local area click here>>
When you’re ready to proceed, both Regular and Territorial potential officers attend a briefing at the Army Officer Selection Board (AOSB) where you take a series of tests and interviews. Pass these and it’s on to the full Army Officer Selection Board. This lasts for three-and-a-half days, and includes further physical and mental tests.
If you pass AOSB you’ll be told when you can begin officer training. Your training will be slightly different depending on whether you’re hoping to serve as a Regular or Territorial.
Regulars do a 44-week residential course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Territorials do most of their officer training in their spare time at a Regional Training Centre or with their unit, although they must also complete a three-week residential course at Sandhurst.
When training is over your career begins in earnest. You’ll start as a Second Lieutenant in your chosen unit, responsible for the welfare and effectiveness of around 30 soldiers. From that day onwards you will develop as a leader, growing in experience, taking on more responsibility and beginning the journey up the ranks.
To see how your career as an officer develops click here>>