Infantry Officers are dynamic, charismatic, and enthusiastic leaders who have the privilege to command the soldiers that make up the Army’s most critical capability, often in the toughest and most demanding settings.
Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.
Age
You can join between the ages of 18 – 49. At the time of your application you will need to be between 17 years & 9 months old and 48 years & 11 months old.
72 UCAS points and 35 ALIS points at GCSE (including at least grade C/4 in English, Maths and a science or foreign language).
Need help?
Unsure about requirements? Your local Army Reserve unit can help you.
Imagine… You have a rifle platoon at your command. These highly skilled soldiers are trained to operate in all environments and all types of conflict. Your troops rely on you for leadership, guidance and support, on operations and exercises, wherever you are in the world. You are responsible for your troops’ morale, welfare and career development. On the front line, their lives are in your hands. If it sounds daunting, don’t worry: 15 months of intensive training will teach you everything you need to know.
Command highly trained frontline soldiers as an Infantry Platoon Commander
Deploy around the world on everything from frontline operations to disaster relief missions
Serve in one of 19 Infantry Regiments. Each has its own unique history and identity
Get trained in Armoured, Airborne, Mechanised, Light Mechanised or Light Role tactics
Specialise as a Company Second-in-Command, Anti-Tank, Mortar, Reconnaissance, Intelligence or Communications Officer further down the line
Step 1You’ll need to pass the Army Reserve Commissioning Course at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. Depending on your circumstances you can complete this in modules or in one go.
Step 2You progress on to the two-week Platoon Commanders’ Battle Course, which prepares you to take charge of your team. You also get the chance to do further study. Training is flexible, so you can fit it around your other commitments.
You’ll get paid a day rate according to your rank, starting from £83.31 per day once you have passed Army Officer Selection and rising to £99.60 per day once you’ve commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. This includes being paid for weekly drill nights. Plus, if you complete all of your annual training, you’re entitled to a tax-free lump sum called a bounty.
Chartered Institute of Personnel Development
City and Guilds certificate in Human Resource Management
Core Combat Skills
Chartered Management Institute
Your Application Journey
From application to training, you can expect a timeline of between 9 and 24 months.
Timelines can vary depending on individual circumstances.
1. 1 day
Online application
Complete your application form online. You’ll need details about your education, work history, and why you want to join the Army.
2. 3 – 8 weeks
Unit sponsorship
You’ll be matched with a suitable unit who will interview you. You’ll then be sponsored by the unit. Once sponsored, they will support you through the remainder of the recruiting journey.
3. 2-6 months
Medical checks
Before you can go to officer assessment you must complete the medical checks. This includes your medical history being reviewed and a face to face medical examination.
4. 2-3 months
Army Officer Selection Board Briefing
Once you’re ready, and you’ve completed all the medical requirements, you’ll be sent to briefing. Over 2 days you’ll be assessed on physical and practical exercises and learn how to prepare for Main Board.
5. 6-14 months
Army Officer Selection Board – Main Board
Time to put your skills to the test. This 4 day event will test you mentally and physically. Main Board can be attended no less than 4 weeks after going to Briefing. The category you were given at Briefing will indicate how much work you need to do before heading to main board – which will affect the time it will take to get to this stage.
6. 7-24 months
Security clearance
Background and security checks are conducted. This can take longer depending on your personal circumstances and history. Once this is done you are ready to Attest and start your officer training.
Your future starts here
Every Reserve Infantry Officer started exactly where you are now. Take the first step.
This role is also available in the Regular Army
Serve full-time as a Infantry Officer …
#J-18808-Ljbffr…
