Which naval rank do candidates receive upon successful completion of OCS?

Upon successful completion of Officer Candidate School (OCS), candidates are commissioned as Ensigns in the United States Navy. This rank is the entry-level officer rank and marks the beginning of a candidate's career as a naval officer. The promotion to Ensign recognizes the candidate's training, knowledge, and leadership potential, which they have developed during their time at OCS. Following their commissioning, Ensigns typically have further responsibilities and opportunities to advance within the Navy, but the rank of Ensign is foundational for all newly commissioned officers.

The ranks of Lieutenant, Commander, and Captain are higher ranks that require further experience, time in service, and additional qualifications to achieve. Newly commissioned officers will only advance to these ranks after serving in the Navy and gaining the necessary experience and performance evaluations.