So, I've been pondering on the idea of joining the military after high school. I heard somewhere that you have to go through a government background investigation? Is that true? How does it work?
Yes, you're correct. When you apply to join the military, one of the steps is a comprehensive government background check or investigation.
The scope and intensity of the investigation depend primarily on the position or role you'd be filling in the military, specifically if it requires security clearance. Positions that involve handling classified information, for instance, require a more thorough background investigation (e.g., Single Scope Background Investigation or SSBI) compared to others.
Generally, the background check covers your criminal, financial, educational, and personal history. This includes a criminal history search, credit check, education verification, and, in some cases, interviews with people who know you, such as friends, family, neighbors, employers, etc.
The responsibility of managing and implementing these background checks is with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), or other relevant governmental bodies.
Bear in mind that the background check is just one part of the enlistment process. There are also tests, interviews, physical examinations, etc. It's important to be truthful throughout this process, as your honesty (or absence thereof) could have serious implications on your military career.
Just remember, while the process might seem daunting, it's meant to ensure a secure and trustworthy workforce at every level of the military, which is vital for national security.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.