ROTC provides life-changing opportunities to many cadets and midshipmen. For some—especially Contracted Cadets—changes in circumstance may turn opportunity into catastrophe. Disenrollment can result in substantial educational debt in the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. For those managing conditions beyond their control, this need not necessarily be the case. What follows are the questions we hear most from those facing medical and mental health challenges while enrolled or contracted in ROTC.  

Can I get a Medical Waiver after enrolling in ROTC?

Medical waivers are for ROTC applicants and Cadets or Midshipmen who have not yet contracted. Contracted Cadets and Midshipmen must instead request Medical Determinations or, in some cases, an After-the-Fact Waiver. Contracted cadets are obligated to update Cadre on any change in medical status. Should a Cadet fail to disclose a known, pre-existing medical condition, it is likely they will face disenrollment for breach of contract. DFAS will often recoup any scholarship funds/stipends/training costs paid in such cases.

You can learn more about applying to ROTC with medical concerns, DoDMERB, and disqualifying conditions from our ROTC Medical Waivers FAQs. 

What is a “Change in Medical Status?” What kinds of medical changes or conditions do I need to report?

A change in medical status refers to any medical situation that could impact a Cadet’s medical qualification for military service while enrolled in ROTC. Changes in medical status may include but are not limited to:

• Broken bones
• Sprains
• Illness lasting more than 30 days
• medication use lasting longer than 30 days, either prescription or over-the-counter
• Pregnancy
• Allergies
• Prescribed medications
• Emergency room visits
• Hospitalizations
• Counseling sessions with a mental health professional

ROTC contracts specifically include a requirement to report medical changes to Cadre; read your contract carefully. Contracted cadets and midshipmen who fail to comply with this requirement may face disenrollment and removal from their ROTC program.

Note: Just because you experience a change in medical status which then requires a medical determination, it does not necessarily mean you will be removed from ROTC. In some cases, your program’s waiver authority may determine that you remain medically qualified, or recommend a temporary medical leave of absence.

If you are aware of and/or have a diagnosis for a medical condition while applying, you are expected to disclose that information during the application process. Withholding such information can present serious challenges to your continued enrollment later on.

I’m a contracted cadet; will I incur educational debt if I’m medically disqualified?

It depends on a few factors, chief of which is whether or not you are in breach of contract by knowingly concealing a medical condition or change in medical status. ROTC contracts establish a service obligation in return for a scholarship. The service obligation does not go away for those under contract but unable to complete ROTC. Generally, this leaves two options: (1) complete the service obligation in another way, i.e. by enlisting for 2 – 4 years; or (2) pay back the scholarship money.

Certain medical and mental health conditions prevent Cadets from being enrolled in the military (see DODI 6130.03, Vol. 1, as well as any program/branch-specific requirements). Enlisting is not an option for those medically disqualified. But that does not necessarily mean you will be expected to pay back all scholarship/stipend funds to the military. Cadets and Midshipmen who develop a disqualifying medical condition while enrolled in ROTC may be medically disenrolled without incurring debt.

However, Contracted Cadets who knowingly hide a medical condition, whether during or after the application process, will most likely face disenrollment and an obligation to repay any scholarship funds received.

The military is perfectly aware that some Cadets will develop disqualifying medical conditions after enrolling in ROTC. If fear of removal from ROTC keeps you from disclosing a medical condition or seeking treatment, know that it is often far less risky to report in accordance with your ROTC contract and program policy.

If I’m Contracted and my medical disqualification is mental-health related, will I have to pay back my scholarship money?

It is possible for Contracted Cadets/Midshipmen who are medically disenrolled from ROTC to avoid incurring educational debt. Psychiatric and behavioral health conditions are considered medical conditions. However, it is highly advised to consult an attorney experienced in ROTC disenrollment matters as soon as possible.

If you are suspected of willfully concealing a condition of which you were already aware, that would qualify as a breach of contract. You may, in that case, be expected to pay back your educational debt. It is highly advised to speak with a military attorney with experience in ROTC disenrollment in that case.

If I go to therapy, receive a mental health diagnosis, or start psychiatric medication, will I be kicked out of ROTC? Should I hide my condition from Cadre?

Seeking mental health treatment while enrolled in ROTC will not necessarily get you kicked out. If you disclose any medical changes in accordance with your contract/program policy, you may require a medical determination. A medical determination does not always mean you will be disenrolled. Your continued medical eligibility will be decided by your program’s appropriate medical waiver authority. The result may be continuation, the option to take a leave of absence, or medical disenrollment.

There is a great deal of fear among ROTC Cadets facing mental health challenges. However, it is important to seek professional help. Work with your mental health provider to develop a treatment plan and document your progress. Such documentation from a professional can go a long way toward demonstrating your continued eligibility, or avoiding incurring a debt upon disenrollment.

Note that you likely will be disenrolled if you attempt to conceal such changes in medical status. ROTC contracts specifically include a requirement to report medical changes to Cadre; this generally includes counseling with a mental health professional, psychiatric hospitalization, and being prescribed psychiatric medication. Read your contract carefully; failing to report treatment may result in disenrollment and a financial obligation to DFAS.

If I see a therapist or psychologist now, will that prevent me from getting a security clearance?

No, seeking mental health treatment will not prevent you from qualifying for a security clearance. Mental/behavioral conditions alone are not grounds to deny or revoke a security clearance. However, if you breach your contract by misrepresenting your medical status while enrolled in ROTC, that could harm your chances of obtaining security clearance under Guideline E: Personal Conduct. When seeking eligibility for access to sensitive information, one must demonstrate trustworthiness, reliability, and sound judgment. Seeking professional help when struggling with mental health issues does demonstrate sound judgment.

How an attorney can help

Unfortunately, attorneys can be present at ROTC hearings, but they cannot always argue on their client’s behalf; the different Service Branches have different rules. Regardless of whether the attorney can directly advocate before the Board, an attorney experienced with ROTC procedures and policies can offer guidance on strategy beforehand, and help Cadets navigate the myriad administrative requirements and nuances that come with medical matters. Professional legal counsel is critical for anyone facing allegations that they knowingly misrepresented or withheld medical information, lest the result be disenrollment with a financial burden attached.

Tully Rinckey attorneys understand that ROTC policies and procedures can quickly overwhelm Cadets and their families. They will handle your matter with the attention and tact it deserves. If you have additional questions about navigating health or financial concerns with ROTC, our team of attorneys is available to assist you today. Please call 8885294543 to schedule a consultation, or schedule a consultation online.

Heather Tenney, Esq., LL.M. is a Partner in Tully Rinckey PLLC’s military law, federal employment, and national security law practice groups. She currently serves as the primary attorney for consultation in these areas. Heather brought her skills as an advocate and negotiator to Tully Rinckey after honorably serving with the US Army’s JAG Corps, and the results speak for themselves. At the firm, she focuses on military law; federal employment, EEO and discrimination litigation; disciplinary investigation and MSPB litigation, disability retirement, and national security clearance representation. Heather’s representation in national security and security clearance cases range from high-level military officers to covert operation officers of the CIA, NRO, FBI, DIA and a range of other intelligence agencies. Heather currently serves as Treasurer for the National Security Lawyers Association (NSLA).