How Long is Ranger School

Ranger School typically lasts 61 days, offering intense training to develop combat skills, leadership, and endurance. The rigorous program, divided into three phases, challenges students both physically and mentally. Understanding “How Long is Ranger School” is crucial for those aspiring to earn the prestigious Ranger tab.

What is Ranger School

Ranger School is a grueling leadership course within the U.S. Army, designed to train soldiers in combat techniques, small unit tactics, and survival skills under extreme conditions. The school emphasizes the development of elite infantry and special operations leaders, preparing them for high-stress environments and complex missions.

The training is divided into three demanding phases: the Benning Phase, the Mountain Phase, and the Florida Phase. Each phase tests the candidates’ abilities to lead, operate, and endure in various challenging terrains and scenarios. Graduates of Ranger School earn the coveted Ranger tab, signifying their exceptional leadership and tactical prowess.

How Long is Ranger School

Ranger School itself is not an undergraduate program but rather a professional military leadership course offered by the U.S. Army. However, for those interested in a military career leading up to Ranger School, here’s a general timeline of the necessary steps and related educational path:

High School (Years 1-4)

Preparation and Fitness:

1. Maintain good physical fitness and academic performance.
2. Participate in sports or activities that build leadership and teamwork skills.

ROTC or Military Academy Preparation:

1. Join Junior ROTC (if available) or prepare for a service academy application.
2. Focus on subjects like physical education, history, and government.

Undergraduate Education (Years 5-8)

College Years 1-2:

1. Enroll in a college or university with an ROTC program or attend a military academy.
2. Focus on core academic courses and military science classes.
3. Participate in ROTC training and activities to build leadership skills.

College Years 3-4:

1. Continue advanced ROTC training, leadership roles, and physical conditioning.
2. Complete a degree in a field of interest while fulfilling ROTC requirements.
3. Apply for and complete additional military training or summer programs (e.g., Cadet Summer Training).

Post-Graduation and Commissioning

Officer Training:

1. Upon graduation, commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.
2. Attend Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC) specific to your assigned branch.

Preparation for Ranger School:

1. Maintain peak physical fitness and prepare for the rigors of Ranger School.
2. Gain experience in leadership positions within your unit.
3. Apply for and attend the Pre-Ranger Course if available.

Ranger School

1. Enrollment in Ranger School:

1. Ranger School lasts approximately 61 days, divided into three phases (Benning, Mountain, and Florida).
2. Successful completion earns the prestigious Ranger tab, signifying elite leadership and tactical skills.

This timeline outlines the typical path from high school to earning a Ranger tab, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness, academic performance, and leadership development throughout the journey.

How to Enter Ranger School

Educational Requirements for Ranger School

High School Diploma or GED:

Basic educational requirement for enlistment in the U.S. Army.

Officer Education:

Completion of an undergraduate degree is required for officers attending Ranger School.

ROTC or Military Academy Training:

Participation in ROTC or graduation from a military academy is common for those pursuing a commission as an officer.

Entry Tests for Ranger School

Physical Fitness Test (PFT):

Candidates must pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) or the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) with high scores.

Ranger Assessment Phase:

Includes a 5-mile run, 12-mile ruck march, obstacle course, and other physical challenges.

Combat Water Survival Test:

Evaluates swimming ability and water confidence.

Land Navigation:

Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in day and night land navigation.

Application Process for Ranger School

Enlistment or Commission:

Enlist as a soldier or commission as an officer in the U.S. Army.

Pre-Ranger Course:

Attend and successfully complete the Pre-Ranger Course (if applicable) to prepare for Ranger School.

Unit Recommendation:

Obtain a recommendation and approval from your commanding officer or unit.

Submit Application:

Submit the Ranger School application through your chain of command.

Selection:

Await selection and assignment to a Ranger School class.

Financial Aids for Ranger School

Military Pay:

Soldiers and officers continue to receive their regular military pay and benefits while attending Ranger School.

Tuition Assistance:

Active-duty military personnel may be eligible for tuition assistance programs for continuing education.

GI Bill:

The Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery GI Bill can provide financial support for education and training.

Scholarships and Grants:

ROTC cadets may receive scholarships covering tuition, fees, and other expenses during their undergraduate education.

Army Benefits:

Various benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and family support services are available to service members.

These subpoints provide a comprehensive overview of the educational requirements, entry tests, application process, and financial aids available for Ranger School candidates.

Postgraduate Programs for Military Professionals

Master’s Degrees:

1. Defense and Strategic Studies:
2. Focuses on military strategy, national security, and defense policies.
3. Military History:
4. In-depth study of military conflicts, strategies, and historical impacts.
5. Leadership and Organizational Management:
6. Enhances leadership skills applicable in military and civilian settings.
7. International Relations:
8. Examines global politics, international conflicts, and diplomatic strategies.

Professional Military Education (PME):

1. Command and General Staff College (CGSC):
2. Offers advanced military education for mid-career officers.
3. Army War College:
4. Provides strategic leadership education for senior military officers.
5. Naval Postgraduate School:
6. Offers various defense-related master’s programs and research opportunities.
7. Air Force Institute of Technology:
8. Provides advanced education in engineering, science, and management.

PhD Programs for Military Professionals

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Defense and Strategic Studies:

Focuses on advanced research in military strategy, defense policies, and national security.

PhD in International Relations:

Explores advanced theories and research in global politics, international conflicts, and diplomatic relations.

PhD in Organizational Leadership:

Examines advanced leadership theories, organizational behavior, and strategic management.

PhD in Military History:

Conducts in-depth research on historical military events, strategies, and their impacts on modern warfare.

Top 10 Ranger Schools

United States Military Academy at West Point:

West Point provides a rigorous academic and military training environment that prepares cadets for leadership roles, including Ranger School.

Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning:

This program trains officer candidates and prepares them for leadership roles in the Army, including Ranger School.

Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC):

ROTC programs across various colleges and universities prepare cadets for military service and advanced training like Ranger School.

The Infantry School at Fort Benning:

Known for its comprehensive infantry training, Fort Benning is also the home of Ranger School and the Maneuver Center of Excellence.

3rd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment:

Part of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, this unit is known for its rigorous training and preparation of soldiers for Ranger School and special operations.

Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP):

Conducted by the 75th Ranger Regiment, RASP is an intense selection process that prepares soldiers for assignment to the Ranger Regiment, which often leads to attending Ranger School.

Special Forces Qualification Course (Q Course) at Fort Bragg:

While focused on training Green Berets, the Q Course includes rigorous physical and tactical training that prepares soldiers for elite roles, including Ranger School.

United States Army Airborne School at Fort Benning:

This school provides paratrooper training and is often a precursor to Ranger School for those pursuing airborne and Ranger qualifications.

Special Operations Preparation Course (SOPC):

A preparatory course for Special Forces, SOPC includes intense physical and tactical training that is beneficial for those aiming to attend Ranger School.

National Guard Pre-Ranger Programs:

Various National Guard units offer Pre-Ranger Courses designed to prepare soldiers for the challenges of Ranger School, emphasizing physical fitness and tactical skills.

While Ranger School itself is a singular program at Fort Benning, these institutions and units are renowned for their rigorous training and preparation of soldiers for Ranger School and other elite military roles.

Factors Affecting the Length of Ranger School

Performance in Key Phases:

1. Benning Phase:

Success in the initial assessment, including the physical fitness test, land navigation, and patrols.

1. Mountain Phase:

Ability to complete mountain patrols, climbing, and rappelling tasks in the rugged terrain.

1. Florida Phase:

Completion of swamp training, water navigation, and patrols in challenging conditions.

Recycling:

1. Failure to Pass a Phase:

If candidates fail certain aspects of any phase, they may be “recycled” and required to repeat the phase, extending their training by several weeks.

1. Medical Issues:

Injuries or medical issues can result in temporary removal from training and reentry at a later date.

Weather Conditions:

1. Extreme Weather:

Severe weather, such as heavy rain, extreme cold, or heat, can delay training exercises and extend the duration of the course.

1. Environmental Challenges:

Adverse conditions in each phase’s environment (mountains, swamps) can impact the pace of training.

Class Scheduling:

1. Class Start Dates:

Availability of class slots and start dates can affect when candidates begin their training.

1. Holidays and Breaks:

Scheduled breaks or holidays within the training period may extend the overall duration.

Physical and Mental Fitness:

1. Initial Fitness Levels:

Candidates with higher physical fitness and mental resilience are more likely to complete the phases on schedule.

1. Stress and Fatigue:

Managing stress and fatigue effectively influences performance and progression through the course.

Training Intensity and Demands:

1. Rigor of Training:

The high intensity and demanding nature of Ranger School require sustained performance, impacting the length if additional time is needed to meet standards.

1. Adaptability:

Quick adaptation to training methods and environments can reduce the need for additional time in any phase.

Instructor and Peer Support:

1. Quality of Instruction:

Experienced instructors and effective training methods can facilitate timely completion.

1. Peer Support:

Encouragement and teamwork among peers can help maintain morale and performance, reducing the likelihood of delays.

Understanding these factors is crucial for candidates preparing for Ranger School, as they can significantly impact the overall duration of the training program.

Final Verdict

The length of Ranger School, typically 61 days, can be influenced by performance, recycling, weather, scheduling, and fitness levels. Understanding these factors helps candidates prepare for the rigorous training and maximize their chances of timely completion.

FAQs

How long is Ranger School?

Ranger School typically lasts 61 days, divided into three rigorous phases.

What are the key phases of Ranger School?

The key phases are the Benning Phase, the Mountain Phase, and the Florida Phase.

Can the length of Ranger School be extended?

Yes, candidates may be recycled to repeat phases due to failure, medical issues, or performance, extending the duration.

What is the impact of weather on Ranger School?

Extreme weather conditions can delay training exercises and extend the overall length of the course.

How important is physical fitness for Ranger School?

High physical fitness and mental resilience are crucial for timely completion and success in the training program.