Enlisting while still in high school—possible?

I'm currently a junior and spending a lot of time thinking about my post-grad plans. Is it possible to enlist in the military while I'm still attending high school? Or do I have to wait until after graduation?

Absolutely, it is possible to make the commitment to enlist in the military while you're still in high school, but the actual enlistment or active duty won't begin until after your graduation. This is typically done through a program called the Delayed Entry Program (DEP), which allows you to commit to basic training at a future date. You'll swear in, sign a contract, and then finish your high school education before leaving for training.

Each branch of the military has different age requirements for enlistment, but all require a high school diploma or a GED. For instance, the Army and Air Force require enlistees to be between 17 and 39; the Navy between 17 and 34; the Marines between 17 and 29; and the Coast Guard between 17 and 27. Seventeen-year-olds interested in these opportunities will need parental consent to enlist.

Please remember this is a significant decision and it's recommended to discuss this with your parents, guidance counselor, and to seek advice from trusted adults. Furthermore, doing appropriate research beforehand, preferably with a recruiter or someone who has served, is crucial to ensure you're making an informed choice.