Hey! Random question, but is it possible to serve in the military without first graduating from high school? I'm still a junior and from what I heard, it seems some of my older friends joined the military even before they got their high school diplomas. I know it might seem too early for me, but I just want to know more about my options.
Absolutely. The U.S. military does permit individuals without high school diplomas to enlist, however, there are some caveats to consider.
The military, including branches such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, strongly prefers recruits to have a high school diploma. They view it as an indicator of perseverance, personal responsibility, and the ability to fulfill obligations. In fact, approximately 90% of those enlisted have a high school diploma or higher.
Having said that, the military does offer an alternative for those without high school diplomas. You may be able to enlist if you have a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. However, it's worth noting that those with a GED may face more limited opportunities. This is because each branch of the military limits the number of GED holders who can enlist each year, usually to less than 10% of all new recruits.
Another path to enlistment without a high school diploma is through the Job Corps. It's a federally funded program that helps young people find a career path. In this program, you can gain training in various fields and, upon completion, have the option to enlist without a diploma or GED.
Keep in mind, while serving in the military can be a fulfilling decision, forgoing the completion of high school should be considered carefully. Education is an invaluable tool that can provide a solid foundation for your post-military career and personal growth. Furthermore, if your motivation to join the military is to pursue a college education, many military branches offer tuition assistance programs that could allow you to complete your degree while serving.
Take your time to thoroughly explore all options and make an informed decision best suited for your long-term goals.
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