U.S. Army Functional Area 49 :: Operations Research & Systems Analysis (ORSA)

VTIP Process in a Nutshell

This narrative outlines the general lifecycle of a VTIP application from start to finish.

1. HRC Sets the Conditions Before the application window opens, Human Resources Command (HRC) analyzes the Army's manning needs. They determine the target strength for each branch and functional area, which results in the publication of the official IN/OUT chart. This chart, along with a detailed MILPER message, formally opens the VTIP window and provides instructions for applicants.

2. You Submit Your Application Your application path depends on whether you require an Exception to Policy (ETP) based on the current IN/OUT chart.

Standard Applicants: You will submit your packet directly through the Army's AIM2 portal. You should also provide a courtesy copy to the gaining branch/proponent.
Applicants Requiring an ETP: we provide a recommendation to HRC for consideration.

3. Proponent & HRC Pre-Panel Review Once applications are in, they undergo several reviews before the final panel.

ETP Review: The gaining branch/proponent reviews all ETP packets first. They assess your qualifications and provide comments, forwarding only the packets they endorse to HRC. HRC makes the final decision on which ETP packets will be seen by the official VTIP panel. Proponents will notify officers whose ETP packets were not forwarded.
All Applications Review: For all standard applications and approved ETPs, both the gaining branch (the one you want to transfer to) and the losing branch (your current one) will review your file. They will provide their own comments and preferences within the HRC system for the panel to consider.

4. The Final Panel & Results The official VTIP panel convenes to make the final decisions. The panel members conduct a holistic review of your file, which includes:

Your application and personal statement
Your Officer performance file (OMPF)
Comments and rankings from the gaining branch
Comments from your current (losing) branch

Once the panel concludes, the results are published. You will be officially notified of whether your transfer was accepted or denied via a message in the AIM2 portal.

Key Timelines & Special Considerations

VTIP Panel Timing: Panels are held once per fiscal year, usually in the 2nd quarter. The results of the panel are synchronized to align with a future officer movement cycle and its corresponding marketplace.
Advanced Civilian Schooling (ACS) Applications: The ACS selection panel is a separate event that occurs annually, usually during the summer. Applications are typically due in late summer, with results announced in the early fall. The selection results are timed to align with the second major movement cycle of the upcoming fiscal year.
Applying for VTIP with ACS: VTIP candidates are encouraged to apply for ACS simultaneously. However, the allocation of a fully funded graduate school slot is contingent upon your VTIP transfer being approved by the panel and accepted by you.