Green Card and Military Enlistment Options

I'm a high school junior with a green card and I'm considering enlisting in the military after graduation. Is it possible for me to enlist, and what steps should I take to get started?

Yes, as a green card holder, you're eligible to enlist in the U.S. military. The Department of Defense allows immigrants who are permanent residents to serve, and you can certainly explore options in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force as per your interest.

Getting started involves meeting the general requirements and going through the enlistment process. Here's a simplified outline of the process:

1. Research Each Branch: Because each branch of the military may have some variation in their enlistment process, it can be helpful to first research which branch aligns most with your interests and skill set. The official websites of the different branches are great starting points for this, offering information about their respective recruitment and enlistment processes.

2. Consult a Recruiter: Once you've established which branch you're interested in, contact your local recruiting office. The recruiter can guide you through the entire process, answer any questions you have, and inform you of the requirements specific to your chosen branch.

3. Meet General Requirements: While requirements can vary, some general preconditions include being at least 18 years old (or 17 with parental consent), meeting the medical and physical fitness standards, and having a high school diploma.

4. ASVAB Test: You will need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This test will help determine which jobs you qualify for within the military.

5. Processing at a MEPS Station: Your recruiter will schedule you for a visit to a Military Entrance Processing Station for medical screening and processing, which happens in the days following your successful ASVAB.

6. Enlistment: Upon clearing MEPS, you will choose your military occupation, sign an enlistment agreement, and take an Oath of Enlistment. Afterwards, you'll get your shipping date to begin training (also called boot camp) specific to the branch you're joining.

Before you enlist, it's essential to consider how this decision will affect your future, whether you plan to make the military your career or use it as a stepping stone for other opportunities. Enlisting in the military is a significant commitment, so you should research thoroughly and speak to individuals who have been through the experience to gain a better understanding of what you're committing to. It's also worth noting that serving in the U.S. military can expedite the naturalization process if you're interested in becoming a U.S. citizen.