THE  PROGRAM
The Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) is one of the most common enlisted-to-officer routes in the Marine Corps. MECEP offers qualified Marines the chance to go to a four-year college, full-time, while maintaining active duty status and pay. MECEP is open to all active duty Marines and Marines in the Active Reserve (AR) program who meet the eligibility requirements. Selection is based on an individual’s potential for commissioned service as demonstrated by their service record, previous academic record, and evidence of career and academic self-improvement.

​See MARADMINS 166/20 for more information.

MECEP  SELECTION
The MCRC (ON) will announce annually (usually during mid-December) the results of the MECEP board by MARADMIN. They will also indicate which selectees are required to attend MECEP preparatory school in San Diego, California. 

Although you should have been accepted to a university prior to applying for MECEP, this is sometimes not feasible. If not already accepted to a university, you will have until approximately 01April to forward your college acceptance letter to MCRC (ON). 

Since applications for incoming freshman and transfer students are due to University of Illinois Office of Admissions not later than 01January and 15January, respectively, or to Parkland College, it is important to start the application process immediately upon notification that you have been selected.

​REQUIREMENTS AT THE WGNB
In addition to your curriculum specific University of Illinois degree requirements, the following classes must be taken in order to earn a commission:

NS 321 Evolution of Warfare 
NS 323 History of Amphibious Warfare 
NS 308 Leadership and Ethics
3 credit hours of US Military History or National Security Policy

A normal course load for a MECEP at the University of Illinois (or Parkland) is 15-18 hours per semester.