The Pathways to RASP Without an Option 40 Contract

The Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP), or previously known as RASP 1, is a crucial phase for those aspiring to join the esteemed Ranger Regiment. Traditionally, this program is reserved for soldiers with an Option 40 contract, which secures their slot in the program upon completion of Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT). However, there are alternative pathways to access RASP even without an Option 40 contract.

Alternative Pathways to RASP

There are several alternate routes to RASP that soldiers can explore. One such pathway involves volunteering after enlistment. Soldiers who do not have an Option 40 contract can still volunteer for RASP after they complete their initial training. This usually requires them to serve in a standard military occupational specialty (MOS) for a certain period before applying.

Another pathway is reclassification. Some soldiers may be able to change their military occupational specialty (MOS) to an Infantry MOS (11X) after their initial enlistment, which then allows them to volunteer for RASP.

The Historical Context

The chances of getting into RASP without an Option 40 contract are not as challenging as one might think. Based on historical accounts, there were instances around 20 years ago where soldiers during their basic training and especially during infantry Officer School Undergraduate Training (OSUT), were sometimes told by their Drill Sergeants that there were slots available for Airborne training, which includes the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP 1).

The Drill Sergeants would identify candidates with high Physical Training (PT) scores, logical thinking (GT scores), and American citizenship. These candidates were then asked if they would be interested in volunteering for Airborne training. Additionally, soldiers with lower-than-usual GT scores who were currently attending Airborne school might have the opportunity to secure orders for RASP 1 by contacting a Ranger or Special Forces (SF) liaison at Fort Benning.

Opportunities for Support Soldiers

Support soldiers may have more opportunities due to the high demand for support MOS in special operations units. They often have more free time in Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to network with Ranger or SF liaisons. Infantry soldiers, on the other hand, may have less opportunity as they are less likely to have this free time during this critical training period.

The key to success in obtaining a spot in RASP or any special operations unit lies in being proactive and identifying the available opportunities, even if they are not explicitly mentioned in one's initial contract. This proactive approach leverages individual characteristics, such as high PT scores, reasoning ability, and citizenship, to increase the chances of being selected for RASP.

Conclusion

In summary, while the traditional route of an Option 40 contract is the most straightforward path to RASP, there are several alternative pathways available. By volunteering after initial training, reclassifying, or making the most of networking opportunities, soldiers can significantly increase their chances of joining the prestigious Ranger Regiment. Remember, the ability to get into RASP is dependent on a combination of individual qualifications, Army needs, and timely application.