As a high school junior considering military service, I want to know what the basic requirements are for enlisting. Are there specific physical, educational, or age prerequisites I should be aware of?
Here are the basic requirements to enlist in the U.S. military:
1. Age: You must be at least 17 years old to enlist, but the maximum age ranges vary depending on the branch. Most branches allow enlisting up to age 35, but some branches, like the Air Force and Space, allow up to age 42. Note that if you're under 18, you'll need parental consent.
2. Citizenship: U.S. citizens or permanent residents (Green Card holders) are eligible to enlist.
3. Education: Typically, you need at least a high school diploma. Some branches accept a GED but may have more strict recruitment standards in other areas.
4. Physical and Medical Conditions: Each branch has its own standards, but you generally need to be in good physical health with acceptable vision and hearing. All enlistees must pass the military's physical exam, which assesses various components of physical fitness.
5. Legal Status: You must have a relatively clean legal record. Serious offenses or a history of drug abuse can disqualify a candidate.
6. ASVAB Score: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test that measures your aptitude in different skill areas. Minimum scores vary by branch and job.
Remember that each branch of the military has its own specific requirements, so it's important to check with a recruiter for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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