Diploma Requirements for Military Experience

Hey everyone! I've always been told that completing high school is crucial for military service. Can anyone elaborate on why a high school diploma is necessary for joining the military? Is it just about proving you can stick with something, or are there specific skills you need that you gain from high school?

Absolutely! A high school diploma is not just a proof of being able to stick to something, but it also reflects that you possess certain vital skills which can be beneficial in military service. It shows that you have successfully completed a specific level of education, proving a foundational level of knowledge in a variety of critical areas—from mathematics and science to English language arts and social studies—skills that are necessary both in day-to-day life and military service.

For example, math problems and equations could be experienced while calculating distances or trajectories in certain job roles within the military. Language arts and social studies education can help in writing reports, understanding processes, and comprehending societal and cultural contexts, which are key in military interaction domestically and abroad.

Moreover, during high school, students often develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, which are essential in the military. High school is also often a time when students learn discipline, a fundamental trait necessary for military life.

The military also offers opportunities for advanced education and vocational training, where having a strong foundation from high school can be very beneficial. Therefore, having a high school diploma can demonstrate readiness for this further intellectual growth.

To spin this another way, the reason isn't solely about the skills you gain in high school, but also about the statistical correlations seen in performance and high school graduation. Studies have found that high school graduates tend to perform better in the military, show more commitment, and have better outcomes in terms of rank advancement.

That's not to say there aren't exceptions, though. The military can grant a limited number of waivers to individuals who did not graduate from high school. In lieu of a high school diploma, a General Education Development (GED) certificate is also considered, although the acceptance rate for GED holders may be lower due to the emphasized value of a high school diploma. However, these alternatives are not ideal compared to a high school diploma, given the reasons stated above.