Choosing military jobs that can lead to the Defense Language Institute?

I'm really interested in languages and heard the Defense Language Institute is a great place to study. Which military jobs should I look into if I want to end up there?

Absolutely, the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) is a highly regarded institution for language study. There are a few paths you can consider in the military that could lead you there.

First off, linguist roles are often the most straightforward route to the Institute. In different branches of the military, these roles go by different names:

1. The Air Force has Cryptologic Language Analysts.

2. The Army has Cryptologic Linguists.

3. The Navy has Cryptologic Technicians Interpretive (CTI).

4. The Marine Corp also offers a Linguist MOS (Military Occupation Specialties).

Secondly, another clear path to DLIFLC is to enter into Human Intelligence roles. They often involve, and therefore require, foreign language skills. As a result, these roles often come with the opportunity to attend the DLIFLC.

Lastly, Military Intelligence and Special Forces roles can also sometimes involve foreign language requirements or opportunities, depending on the needs of the military and your proficiency in a needed language.

Remember, selection for these roles can often hinge on your score on the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB), a test used by the military to evaluate potential aptitude for learning a foreign language.

It's important to also know that the language you study may be assigned based on the needs of the service branch you join, and it might not necessarily align with your personal language preference. It's likely that you'll have the opportunity to express your language preferences, but know that it's ultimately the military's decision.

Finally, make sure to speak to a recruiter for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as roles and opportunities can vary and change.