Is it possible to join the military without completing high school?

Hey guys, going through my options here. What if I don't finish high school, does the military still accept applications? Could I still apply? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Yes, all branches of the military do allow individuals who did not complete high school to apply, but their requirements differ. However, it can be a bit more complicated than that.

First, it's important to understand that preference is typically given to those who have a high school diploma. It's always viewed more favorably as it demonstrates an applicant's ability to stick through and complete a long-term commitment. The military may see this as an indicator of how well a recruit could potentially do during service.

Secondly, if you haven't completed high school, obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) credential might be required. A GED is commonly accepted as an alternative to a high school diploma. But even with a GED, getting into the military can be more challenging. The number of recruits with a GED accepted into each branch is limited each year.

Moreover, potential recruits without a high school diploma or GED will often be required to score higher on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) in comparison to those who have completed high school.

Keep in mind, the ultimate decision regarding acceptance relies on various factors, including the current enlistment quotas, number of applicants, and specific needs of each branch.

If serving in the military is your goal, finishing high school or obtaining a GED can better improve your chances. Before making such a big decision, consider reaching out to local recruitment offices to get a better understanding of their specific requirements and advice based on your situation. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.