Do you have to graduate to enlist in the military?

I'm considering enlisting in the military after high school, but I'm not sure if I need to officially graduate first. Is a high school diploma a requirement for military enlistment, or are there other paths I could consider?

The short answer is yes, a high school diploma is generally required for enlistment in the military. This is because one of the basic eligibility criteria for entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, including branches like the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force, is being at least a high school graduate or having a GED equivalent.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Some branches of the military accept a small percentage of recruits who haven't finished high school but show promising potential in other areas. These exceptions are limited and often require the applicant to demonstrate other qualifications, such as scoring higher on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

Also, while you're still in high school, there are programs like the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) which allow you to enlist in the military and delay your training until after you've graduated.

Remember that meeting minimum eligibility criteria doesn't necessarily guarantee enlistment—it's typically just the first step in a more comprehensive appraisal process that includes physical examinations, moral standards, and other criteria. You should definitely reach out to a local recruiter or do some research online to understand all the specifics related to the branch you're considering joining.