The Air War College Preparatory Course Published April 3, 2024 International Officer School, Maxwell AFB, AL Arrival Window: 6 - 8 May 2024 IOS Preparatory Course: 13 May - 16 July 2024 AWC: 17 July 2024 - 14 May 2025 This nine-week course prepares international military students (IMS) in the ranks of Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel (or equivalent) for the rigors of the 10-month Air War College (AWC)resident program. Instruction focuses on (1) communications - analytical writing, seminar discourse, research, and critical reading; (2) the US military organization and structure; (3) Field Studies Program events; and (4) Global security issues and a national security strategy orientation. The course's core curriculum focuses on development of critical thinking, professional writing, and communication skills, with an introduction to regional security issues, U.S. history, and a survey of U.S. defense capabilities and national security agencies and issues. Additionally, the course immerses the students in U.S. culture and ideals through the Field Studies Program. Attendance at this IOS preparatory course is a prerequisite for IMS enrolling at the AWC. Learning Outcome: This IOS preparatory course is designed for IMSs to Understand and appreciate American society, institutions, and ideals Understand the U.S. military missions, organizations, and terminology Effectively communicate, integrate, and perform, both academically and socially, in the AU Professional Military Education (PME) environment Prerequisites: IMS must meet the minimum English comprehension level (ECL) required score of 80. Uniform Requirements: The primary duty uniform at Maxwell AFB is the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) uniform or flight suit. International Military Students should bring a complete set of their country's equivalent of the camouflage fatigue or utility uniform (i.e., OCP), and a service dress uniform (coat, tie and hat). A set of "business casual" or "smart casual" civilian attire will also be required for various FSP trips. "Business or smart casual" attire includes a collared button-up shirt or polo, slacks or khakis, and dress shoes (i.e., Derby, monk, or loafers). A blazer or jacket is optional. Women's "smart or business casual" includes dresses or slacks, khakis, or a skirt with a blouse. Heels, loafers, or flats are appropriate shoes. Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, sneakers, tennis shoes, sandals, etc. will not be allowed during FSP trips. Master's Programs: The Air University is the U.S. Air Force's center for professional military education and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award master and doctoral degrees. To qualify for completion of degree programs, IMSs may also be required to complete the internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam with a minimum passing score of 80. For more information, please visit the "related links" below: