Requirements for Joining the US Military

Hey guys, I'm a junior and I've been contemplating the idea of joining the military after graduating high school. Could anyone shed some light on the basic requirements needed to join the US military?

Absolutely, happy to shed some light on this. Before we touch on the requirements, it's important to point out that the US military has five branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps. Each branch has specific requirements, but there are some general ones applicable to all.

First, the age requirement: Typically, you must be between the ages of 17 and 39. If you're under 18, you'll need a parent's consent. The upper age limit may vary slightly between branches and whether you’re planning to enlist or become an officer.

Next comes physical fitness: The military demands physical fitness, and you will need to pass a physical examination which includes weight and body fat percentage thresholds that often change.

Then, there's education. Generally, you should have a high school diploma. Some branches accept a GED but consider it less favorably.

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or have Permanent Resident status.

Legal Status: Applicants must have good moral character, which is typically determined by a comprehensive background check. Some criminal histories can disqualify you.

Getting into specifics, military branches sometimes have unique requirements. For instance, the Air Force and Army have slightly different ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) score requirements as do the other branches.

It would be good to connect with a representative or recruitment officer from the specific branch you're interested in for the most accurate and detailed information. They can provide personalized guidance based on your current circumstances and future aspirations. Keep your options open and keep researching – the decision to join the military is a big one, and being well-informed will help you make the best decision.