The Squadron Officer School Preparatory Course Published Oct. 21, 2022 International Officer School, Maxwell AFB, AL Class 23A Arrival Window: 20 - 22 February 2023 Mandatory In-Processing Briefs: 24 February 2023 IOS Preparatory Course: 27 February - 13 April 2023 SOS: 17 April - 19 May 2023 Class 23B Arrival Window: 18-20 September 2023 Mandatory In-Processing Briefs: 22 September 2023 IOS Preparatory Course: 25 September – 9 November 2023 SOS: 13 November – 15 December 2023 The seven-week course prepares international officers in the ranks of First Lieutenant and Captain (or equivalent) to participate in the Squadron Officer School (SOS) resident program. Instruction focuses on (1) leadership, teamwork, problem solving, and followership; (2) academic writing, seminar discourse, and critical reading; (3) the US military organization and national security strategy; (4) Field Studies Program events; and (5) Physical fitness. Attendance at this IOS preparatory course is a prerequisite for International Military Students enrolling at the SOS. Learning Outcomes: This IOS preparatory course is designed for international military students 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 of 80. Other Requirements: IMS will be required to participate in the physical fitness training programs and meet minimum U.S. Air Force standards on the official Uniform Requirements: The primary duty uniform at Maxwell AFB is the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) uniform and/or flight suit. IMS should bring a complete set of their country's equivalent of the camouflage fatigue/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/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. For more information, please select the "related links" below: