How to Join

Enlisted in the Army

Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP)

A great way to combine the benefits of University of South Florida, Army ROTC and being enlisted in the National Guard / Army Reserve is the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP).

This is a program that allows Army National Guard and Army Reserve enlisted members to participate in the Army ROTC Program while completing college. Upon graduation, these SMP cadets are commissioned as Army 2nd Lieutenants, and can serve in the Army National Guard or Army Reserves in the state of their choosing. For Florida residents, the financial benefits of being an Army National Guard SMP cadet are incredible.

Your tuition is covered completely, and you receive over $1,200 a month (GI Bill, ROTC Stipend and your monthly drill pay).

SMP Benefits Snapshot:
  • 100% tuition for In-State residents if in the Florida National Guard Post 9/11 GI Bill &
    Kicker - nearly $700/month (only if you completed Basic Training and AIT)

  • Drill pay as a sergeant $275+/month Annual Training $1,400+/summer ROTC Stipend of $350/month as a Sophomore

  • $450/mo as a Junior, $500/month as a Senior (for each month in school)

  • Opportunities for developmental schools (Airborne, Air Assault, etc.)

  • Hands-on training with National Guard/Army Reserve Units

  • Student Loan Repayment Option

  • Commissioning Bonus Option Earn time in service while a SMP Cadet (which results in more monthly pay for each month while on active duty)

Green to Gold

If you're an enlisted soldier, Army ROTC can help you continue to grow and learn. The Army Green to Gold program provides options for Soldiers interested in pursuing a baccalaureate or graduate degree and earning a commission as an Army Officer.

There are three options for those interested:

  • Scholarship Option - For those who are considering leaving Active Duty to attend college while receiving full tuition or room and board (capped), flat rate book payment and a monthly stipend.

  • Non-Scholarship Option - For Soldiers who are considering leaving Active Duty to attend college while receiving a monthly stipend.

  • Active Duty Option - For Soldiers who want to remain on Active Duty and attend college.
Benefits include:

Soldiers selected to participate in this program will continue to receive their current pay and allowances while in the program (up to a maximum of 24 consecutive months).

If qualified, Montgomery G.I. Bill / Army College Fund (MGIB/ACF) benefits Post 9/11 GI Bill Normal PCS entitlements.