Can high school dropouts enlist in the military?

Hey there, just heard about a friend who left high school and is now considering joining the military. I was wondering, is it possible for someone who hasn't completed high school to enlist? What's the process like for someone in this situation?

Each branch of the U.S. military has their unique set of requirements concerning educational qualifications. However, all branches put a considerable priority on education and consequently, having a high school diploma significantly improves your chances of being able to enlist.

While a high school diploma is usually preferred, most branches of the military do accept a General Educational Development (GED) certification as a legitimate high school equivalency, although there might be additional restrictions or requirements. However, slots for GED holders typically account for a small percentage of total enlistments each year, making competition for these spots quite fierce. Typically, branches like the Army and Navy might be more accepting of GEDs than the Air Force or Coast Guard.

So, in the case of your friend, it could potentially be a helpful step for them to first acquire their GED. After obtaining their GED (or high school diploma), they would then apply to the branch of the military they're interested in. All applicants, regardless of education, must then take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which measures aptitude in areas such as math, science, and and various technical skills.

Physical examination and moral character standards also play a part in eligibility for enlistment. As with any pathway post high school, it would be wise for your friend to research thoroughly on their options and speak with a recruiter to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.