Gastric or duodenal ulcers
Current ulcer (gastric or duodenal) or history of treated ulcer within the last 3 months or ulcer that is recurrent or complicated by bleeding, obstruction, or perforation within preceding 5 years
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D161.20 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to gastric or duodenal ulcers do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“Stomach and Duodenum. (1) Current dyspepsia, gastritis, or duodenitis despite medication (over the counter or prescription). (2) Current gastric or duodenal ulcers, including, but not limited to, peptic ulcers and gastrojejunal ulcers: (a) History of a treated ulcer within the last 3 months. (b) Recurrent or complicated by bleeding, obstruction, or perforation within the last 5 years. (3) History of surgery for peptic ulceration or perforated ulcer. (4) History of gastroparesis of greater than 6 weeks' duration, confirmed by scintigraphy or equivalent test. (5) History of bariatric surgery of any type (e.g., lap-band or gastric bypass surgery for weight loss). (6) History of gastric varices.”
What You Can Do Next
- 1Don't panic — a DQ code is not a rejection. Many candidates receive disqualification codes and still earn appointments to Service Academies or ROTC scholarships. Focus on strengthening every other part of your application while addressing the medical issue.
- 2Understand the waiver process for your path. For Service Academy candidates, your admissions officer initiates the waiver request. For ROTC candidates, your detachment handles it. You cannot request a waiver directly from DoDMERB — it must come through your commissioning source.
- 3Be the strongest candidate possible. Waiver authorities consider the whole person — academics, athletics, leadership, and character. The more competitive your overall application, the more likely a waiver request will be initiated and approved.
- 4Gather the right medical documentation. Specialist evaluations, treatment records, and evidence that the condition is resolved or well-managed can make or break a waiver request. Knowing exactly what documentation to submit — and how to present it — matters.
- 5Get expert guidance early. LTC Kirkland (Ret.) has guided hundreds of Academy and ROTC candidates through the DoDMERB process, with medical review support from COL Cajigal (Ret.). A single consultation can clarify your waiver options and develop the right strategy for your specific situation.