The Air Command & Staff College Preparatory Course Published April 3, 2024 International Officer School, Maxwell AFB, AL Arrival Window: 20 - 22 May 2024 IOS Preparatory Course: 27 May - 12 July 2024 ACSC: 15 July 2024 – 15 May 2025 This eight-week course prepares international military students (IMS) in the ranks of Major and Lieutenant Colonel (or equivalent) for the rigors of the 10-month Air Command and Staff College (ACSC) resident program. Instruction focuses on (1) communications skills - analytical writing, seminar discourse, and critical reading; (2) the US military organization and structure; (3) Field Studies Program events; and (4) the application of airpower in joint operational environments and national security strategy. Attendance at this IOS preparatory course is a prerequisite for IMS enrolling at the ACSC. Learning Outcomes: 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) requirement score of 80. Uniform Requirements: The primary duty uniform at Maxwell AFB is the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) Uniform or flight suit. IMS 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. IMSs attending SAASS may qualify to participate in the program. To qualify for the 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 select the "related links" below: