Hey guys, I could use some advice. If I haven't completed my high school degree yet, am I out of luck for joining the military, or do they have some kind of alternative paths available? Appreciate any info you can offer.
While it's true that each branch of the US military typically requires enlistees to have a high school diploma, there's some flexibility when it comes to the specifics.
The Army, for instance, occasionally accepts those with a GED (General Educational Development) certificate, though preference is usually given to those with regular diplomas. The Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps also make some allowance for GED holders, but again, high school graduates are preferred.
The main reason for the preference of high school diplomas over GEDs is because studies have shown that those with high school diplomas are more likely to complete their term of service compared to those with GEDs. Therefore, the military limits the number of GED enlistments they accept each year.
Talk with a local military recruiter for a clearer understanding of your options. They can provide updated information based on current enlistment needs and standards. Remember that education is considered an asset in the military. Higher scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), which require solid high school level competencies, often correlate with broader job opportunities within the service.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.