What's the process for enlisting in the military like?

I'm a high school junior thinking about joining the military after graduation. I'm not sure what the whole enlistment process involves. Can anyone break down the steps for enlisting in the military?

The enlistment process for joining the military involves several steps:

1. Research: The first step is to do some research about the different branches of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force) to figure out which one aligns with your interests and career goals. Each branch has different roles and responsibilities, so it's important to understand these distinctions before committing.

2. Meet with a Recruiter: Once you've done your research, your next step is to get in touch with a recruiter. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the enlistment process. You could find a recruiter at a local recruitment center, at a college fair, or online.

3. Take the ASVAB test: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test that determines your qualifications for enlistment in the military. It's not a pass/fail test, but the score determines which job roles you're eligible for in the branch you're interested in.

4. Apply and Submit Documents: After taking the ASVAB, you'll need to fill out an application and provide necessary documents. This often includes identifying documents like a Social Security card and birth certificate, educational records, and medical records among others.

5. Attending MEPS: All recruits will need to pass a medical and character examination at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).

6. Swear-In Ceremony: After successfully passing all necessary examinations and checks, recruits will officially enlist through a swearing-in ceremony.

7. Basic Training: The final stage typically involves attending Basic Combat Training (or Boot Camp) where individuals will learn basic military skills and physical conditioning.

Remember, this is a decision that's going to affect the next few years of your life at least, so take your time researching and considering your options. You might also want to connect with individuals who joined the military after high school and ask them about their experiences. Reaching out to a mentor or counselor at your school can also be helpful.