Enlistment in the Military during High School?

Is it possible to be enlisted in the military during high school? If it is, what's the process like and are there specific programs for high school students?

Yes, it is possible to enlist in the military while still in high school through programs such as the Delayed Entry Program (DEP). The DEP allows you to commit to a branch of the military (like the Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard) and get a spot reserved for you, while still completing your secondary education.

Here's a general rundown of the process:

1. Meet with a recruiter: They'll provide you with information about the different branches of service and what roles might be a good fit for you based on your interests and abilities.

2. Take the ASVAB: Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is a multi-aptitude test used to determine your qualifications for enlistment in the United States Armed Forces.

3. Medical examination: You'll undergo a physical exam to ensure you meet the military's health standards.

4. Select a role: Based on your ASVAB scores and physical examination results, you'll select an MOS (Military Occupational Specialty), which is essentially your job within the military.

5. Swear in: Once you've passed the ASVAB, the physical examination, and selected an MOS, you'll be sworn in and become a member of the DEP.

6. Ship out: After graduating from high school, it's time to leave for boot camp.

It's important to remember enlistment in the military is a serious commitment and should be considered thoroughly. Besides the DEP, each branch also has programs such as the ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) and JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) that high school students can participate in. These programs offer leadership development, military skills training and can lead to scholarships for college.