There is a thread for this. Yes there are written tests at OCS but they are not rocket science.
The thread for stupid questions about Marine OCS is called: Monster Marine OCS thread: stupid questions answered here! and is a sticky at the top of this forum. The tests at OCS are over stuff like Marine history, customs and courtesies, regulations, and some really basic tactics stuff. Everything you need to know will be taught to you there, and as long as you aren't really dumb or asleep in class you won't have a problem. Even if you do sleep you shouldn't have a problem.
Strangely, Marine OCS STILL manages to fart out academic failures despite the relative simpicity of the cirriculum.
If you want to study (I know, you didn't ask) I would use this. It is the Marine Corps Common Skills book 1A. Every single thing in it is something you should be familiar with. Knowing it cover to cover is not a bad thing...or a difficult thing. It's a bible for junior enlisted guys, and a good starting place for an officer candidate.
Garrett, if you have been able to succeed at USD then the academics are not going to be a problem. Worry about being in good shape and good health because those are the things that will get you in trouble. OCS is a kick in the nuts but not because of the academics.
Alright good to know. I've heard it isn't bad, but I have a few months so I figured I was going to see if i could get ahead a little. Trying to get my pft from 290 to 300, but the mile just gets exponentially more difficult to improve haha.
That's freaking for sure! In SD you have a great combo of hills and sand to train on. Many people get their face kicked in by the hills at OCS, but they're like little piles of cowshit compared to what's available to you out there. And 290 is still pretty stellar.