What's the required military service after West Point?

I'm considering applying to West Point and I know there's a military service commitment after graduation. How many years do you have to serve? Also, are there specific roles or branches you have to join?

After graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point, students are required to serve in the U.S. Army for a minimum of five years on Active Duty and three years in the Inactive Ready Reserve. This means that you are essentially committed to eight years of service, but after five years you are not on active duty - you could be called up to serve if needed, but you have more flexibility in what you do with your time.

Upon graduation, cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. Graduates have the opportunity to serve in any of the numerous branches within the Army, depending on their qualifications and the needs of the Army. These include but are not limited to Infantry, Armor, Aviation, Signal Corps, and Medical Service Corps among others. The specific roles and branches in which you serve will depend on your interests, skills, the needs of the military, and your performance at West Point.

Definitely consider reaching out to the West Point Admissions Office or to a current West Point cadet or alumni to get more perspective on service after graduation. They can provide valuable insights into the lifestyle, expectations, and opportunities that come with a commitment to military service post-West Point.