Joining the military without a high school diploma or GED - Is it feasible?

I've got a friend who's had a rough time in school and is pondering dropping out. But, he's expressed an interest in joining the military after leaving school. I've been trying to help him research, and we're wondering if it's possible to join the military without having completed a high school diploma or GED. Does anyone have experience or knowledge in this area?

It can be quite challenging to join the military without having a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) certificate. The military branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, generally prefer new recruits to have a high school diploma due to the nature of the skills and discipline needed in military service.

However, the GED is often accepted in place of a high school diploma. An applicant with a GED would generally need to score higher on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) than an applicant with a high school diploma. The ASVAB is a test used by the military to gauge an applicant's eligibility as well as their aptitude for different military occupations.

Notably, the demand for and acceptance of GED holders can fluctuate based on the military's current recruitment needs. In times of high recruit demand, standards might be relaxed somewhat; conversely, in times of low demand, standards can become more strict.

Additionally, many recruitment offices can provide resources and encouragement for those looking to earn a GED, as it's seen as a positive move both for military service and for the individual's life options beyond the military.

While your friend's situation may appear difficult, having a clear understanding of these requirements is the first step towards carving a clear path forward. But at the end of the day, obtaining a high school diploma or a GED does widen the field of opportunities significantly.