Can I join the US military with a GED?

I have a GED instead of a high school diploma and I'm wondering if that would still allow me to enlist in the military. Are there specific branches more accepting of a GED than others?

Yes, you can join the military with a GED. Each branch of the U.S. military accepts enlistees with a GED, although they do have different acceptance rates that can vary depending on current recruitment needs. This acceptance often comes with added requirements such as an official transcript for 15 units of college credits or a higher minimum score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.

For example, the Army is known to accept more personnel with GEDs than the other branches. They also have programs that can help you earn your GED if you enlist without one. The Navy and Air Force, on the other hand, typically have more stringent regulations and may accept fewer candidates with a GED.

One important thing to bear in mind is that the military often categorizes enlistees with a GED as "Tier 2" candidates, while those with a high school diploma are considered "Tier 1". This mainly affects you in terms of job eligibility and advancement opportunities as the military limits the number of Tier 2 candidates that can enlist each year. Tier 1 candidates are often given preference for more competitive positions.

You might also need to score higher on the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) exam than you would with a high school diploma. Scoring well on the ASVAB can make you a more desirable candidate, as it shows the skills and aptitudes you can bring to the U.S. Military.

If you have specific concerns or want to confirm current regulations, it would be best to contact a local recruiter. They can provide detailed, up-to-date information on enlistment requirements.