Hey, can anyone break down what's required to join the military? Any info on academics, physical condition, or other aspects would be awesome. Thanks!
Joining the military incorporates a series of evaluations, each targeting different elements. Here are some key areas you need to consider:
1. Eligibility: You must be at least 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18 years without consent. You must also be a U.S. citizen or have a Green Card.
2. Education: While requirements can vary between branches, all require a minimum of a high school diploma. Some branches may accept applications from those pursuing a GED. For officer positions, a bachelor's degree or higher might be required.
3. Aptitude Test: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is taken by everyone looking to join. It assesses your abilities and helps place you in a job that matches your skills. It covers areas like general science, mechanical comprehension, and arithmetic reasoning.
4. Physical Fitness: There are stringent medical and physical standards in place. These cover everything from vision and hearing to weight and overall health. You will likely also take a pre-enlistment fitness test, which evaluates your strength, endurance, and agility.
5. Legal: You must have a fairly clean legal record. Some criminal history can disqualify potential candidates. Moreover, drugs are generally a major disqualifier in the military.
6. Character and Conduct: This is evaluated via background checks and other evaluations. Good moral character is generally expected.
7. Service Obligations: Lastly, as part of joining, you will be signing a contract which outlines a commitment to a certain number of years of service. The length and the type (whether active duty or reserves) can differ depending on the branch and your specific job.
Remember, each branch of the military may have specific requirements beyond these general ones. Check with a local recruiter or the official websites for the branch or branches you are interested in. They offer a wealth of information and can aid you in your journey to enlistment.
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