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Assessment and Selection Program (A&S)

 

Assessment and Selection Program (A&S)

Once a Marine is qualified through the MARSOC Recruiters screening process, that Marine will be assigned to the Assessment and Selection (A&S) Program.

Prerequisites

Prior to attending A&S Phase I, Marines are highly encouraged to follow the 10-week training guide.  At a minimum, Marines should complete the first 7 weeks of the guide in order to support the physical rigors of the program.  Attaining only the minimum physical fitness standards to enter MARSOC will not guarantee success during the entire A&S process. A&S highly encourages Marines to have the ability to run a 250 or higher PFT, possess aquatic skills and be able to maintain a 4 mph (15-minute mile) pace with a 45 pound rucksack regardless of distance.  During Phase I, Marines will be given fitness goals and receive professional education on fitness, resiliency and nutrition to achieve maximum fitness results.  Ultimately, candidates will compete against each other for a limited number of seats at selection.

Assessment and Selection Phase I

All Marines must attend the 3-week Assessment and Selection Phase I Course held at Camp Lejeune, NC.  A&S Phase I is a comprehensive program that teaches and conducts fitness-oriented events around the MARSOC Performance and Resiliency Program (PERRES). Other facets of the PERRES Program teach a Marine information on proper nutrition and techniques to maintain overall combat fitness. During Phase I, Marines gain exposure to the units that comprise MARSOC while receiving daily mentorship by instructors who are MARSOC Critical Skills Operators (CSO's). Attendance to A&S Phase I does not guarantee a seat at selection, or assignment to the Individual Training Course (ITC).

Marines that attend Phase I are expected to score a 225 or higher on the initial physical fitness test.  They must also possess the aquatic skill to safely, confidently and continuously swim 300 meters using the prescribed strokes (side or breast) while wearing the MCCU uniform (no boots).  In addition to the swim, Marines are required to conduct an 11-minute water tread in full utility uniform (no boots), followed by 4 minutes of either blouse or trouser flotation.

Assessment and Selection Phase II

A&S Phase II is both mentally and physically challenging. The program is conducted three times a year at an undisclosed location following the A&S Phase I Course.  

A&S Preparation Guide

"DISCLAIMER: This training is tailored for a basically-trained Marine who is preparing to attend MARSOC's Assessment and Selection Course. One should consult a physician before beginning any strenuous exercise program, such as the one described here, or any diet modification, especially if there is a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other adverse medical conditions. The United States Government and any service member or civilian employed by the United States Government disclaims any liability, personal or professional, resulting from the misapplication of any training procedure, technique, or guidance described in this guide."  By accessing this link, you confirm you have read and understand this disclaimer. 

A&S Gear List

A&S Point of Contact: 910-440-1345