Interesting Facts About Military Enlistment

I'm considering enlisting in the military and would love to know some interesting or surprising facts about the enlistment process. Anything that might not be common knowledge would be super helpful as I do my research!

Here are a few lesser-known or interesting facts about military enlistment:

1. Age Limits: Each branch of the military has different age requirements. For instance, you must be between 17 and 35 to enlist in the Army and between 17 and 35 in the Marine Corps (requiring an age waiver if you are above 28 for the Marine Corps). However, these limits can change depending on certain factors like professional skills or education.

2. Citizenship: You don't necessarily have to be a U.S. citizen to enlist in the military. Non-citizens who have a legal residence in the U.S. can enlist, although officer positions and certain jobs require citizenship.

3. ASVAB Test: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a mandatory test before enlistment. The scores from the ASVAB determine the types of military jobs for which you can qualify. Believe it or not, the minimum score needed to pass the ASVAB is 31 out of 99 for most sectors of the military, but a higher score will increase the number and quality of positions open to you.

4. High School Diploma: Most branches prefer individuals with a high school diploma as GED holders may face stricter entrance standards.

5. Physical Requirements: Each branch has rigorous physical requirements that must be met prior to enlistment, including weight, body fat percentages, and physical fitness tests. There are also eyesight and hearing requirements that might be surprising.

6. Tattoo Policies: Depending on the service and the job you want, your tattoos could disqualify you from certain roles. Recently there's been some relaxation around this, but it's always best to check the current requirements.

7. Delayed Entry Program (DEP): Joining the DEP means you've committed to enlistment, but your service won't start until later, sometimes a year or more in the future. This can allow for finishing school, arranging personal matters, or achieving physical fitness goals.

These are just a few facts that might not be common knowledge. As you continue to research, be sure to reach out to recruiters and those currently serving in the military for their personal perspectives and insights. They can provide valuable firsthand experiences that may help illuminate the process!