4 Steps to Become
A CADET
And forge your path to success
Select a Branch
Select a School
Apply to School
Graduate
To Find a High School (HS)
Select a Branch
Each JROTC branch offers the same core leadership experience-but with its own culture, traditions, and areas of focus. Your choice depends on how you like to learn, lead, and challenge yourself.
Army JROTC focuses on leadership, teamwork, and service. It's a strong fit for students who enjoy structure, collaboration, and developing leadership skills through a range of activities.
Marine Corps JROTC highlights discipline, resilience, and physical fitness. It's well-suited for students who enjoy high expectations, personal challenge, and pushing themselves.
Navy JROTC emphasizes technical skills, academics, and precision. It's ideal for students interested in STEM, navigation, engineering, and learning how complex systems work together.
Select a
High School
From the Army Branch
You Chose Army.
Below are your options for an Army JROTC Program
3 Army Academy HS
33 HS with an Army JROTC Program
Academies run their entire school curriculum around JRTOC. On the other hand, High Schools that offer the JROTC program offer only 1 JROTC class throughout the year.
Select a High School
From the Army Branch
You Chose Army.
Below are your options for an Army JROTC Program
3 Army Academy HS
33 HS with an Army JROTC Program
Academies run their entire school curriculum around JRTOC. On the other hand, High Schools that offer the JROTC program offer only 1 JROTC class throughout the year.
3 Academy HS
Select a
High School
From the Marine Branch
You Chose Marines.
Below are your options for a Marine JROTC Program
1 Marine Academy HS
1 HS with a Marine JROTC Program
Academies run their entire school curriculum around JRTOC. On the other hand, High Schools that offer the JROTC program offer only 1 JROTC class throughout the year.
Select a High School
From the Marine Branch
You Chose Marines.
Below are your options for a Marine JROTC Program
1 Marine Academy HS
1 HS with a Marine JROTC Program
Academies run their entire school curriculum around JRTOC. On the other hand, High Schools that offer the JROTC program offer only 1 JROTC class throughout the year.
1 Academy HS
1 HS With a Marine JROTC Program
Select a
High School
From the Navy Branch
You Chose Navy.
Below are your options for a Navy JROTC Program
1 Navy Academy HS
2 HS with a Navy JROTC Program
Academies run their entire school curriculum around JRTOC. On the other hand, High Schools that offer the JROTC program offer only 1 JROTC class throughout the year.
Select a High School
From the Navy Branch
You Chose Navy.
Below are your options for a Navy JROTC Program
1 Navy Academy HS
2 HS with a Navy JROTC Program
Academies run their entire school curriculum around JRTOC. On the other hand, High Schools that offer the JROTC program offer only 1 JROTC class throughout the year.
1 Academy HS
2 High Schools With a Navy JROTC Program
Apply to School
Once you've chosen your JROTC branch and school, the next step depends on how that school enrolls students within Chicago Public Schools.
Some schools are neighborhood schools, where students living nearby may enroll directly. Others are choice or selective enrollment schools, which require an application through CPS.
Important to Know
CPS has a yearly application window for most high schools, and those dates change each year. You cannot apply at any time-but students may transfer during the school year, depending on availability and eligibility.
What You Should Do
- Check your school's enrollment type and requirements
- Review the current CPS application timeline
- Talk to your school counselor about next steps
- Apply through GoCPS if required
- Contact the school or our office with questions
Every path is different, but know that we're here to help you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
Graduate with your high school Diploma
Invest yourself in exploring the opportunities that only our cadets have access to.
Additional Opportunities you have more access to as a cadet
Associates Degree | Certificates | Scholarships | Paid Internships
In addition to Chicago JROTC students earning their high school diploma, students have a higher chance of earning an associate degree, certificates, scholarships, and paid internships based on their performance. This experience gives them a head start in their education and careers, propelling them forward.
And Embrace Your Options
As a graduated cadet, the future is yours to pave forward, with no regrets.
College
Chicago JROTC builds a solid foundation for students pursuing higher education. Our program develops leadership, discipline, and academic skills essential for college success. The Postsecondary Pathway Focus ensures cadets transition smoothly into higher education, equipped to thrive in various academic settings.
Career
Our program provides students with skills that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for diverse careers. Whether entering the workforce directly or pursuing vocational training, Chicago JROTC graduates possess the professionalism, teamwork, and leadership needed to excel in their careers.
Beyond
For those called to serve, Chicago JROTC offers strong support across all military branches. Our program instills discipline, honor, and dedication, ensuring graduates are prepared for military service. Comprehensive training empowers cadets to enter the armed forces with confidence and make a meaningful impact.