Hey all, I've just entered my junior year and I'm exploring a bit. So, technically, if I complete my high school, could I apply to join the military right after graduation? Are there more opportunities within the military if you have a diploma versus not?
Yes, you can definitely join the military after you graduate from high school. In fact, one of the basic requirements for enlisting in any branch of the U.S. military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard) is either a high school diploma or a GED. It's worth noting that the services prefer a high school diploma over a GED, and some branches are more strict about this preference than others.
Having a high school diploma does open up more opportunities within the military. Many job classifications, or Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), require at least a high school diploma because of the technical skills involved. These could range from roles in electronics, communications, engineering, to name a few.
If a job within the military requires higher education, such as officers' roles, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree. That's something to keep in mind if you're thinking about making a longer-term commitment to the military.
Don't forget to also take into account the other requirements for joining the military, such as passing a physical examination and meeting age, nationality, and moral standards. All these, along with your high school diploma, will serve to enhance your overall package as a potential recruit.
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