US military requirements - High school diploma necessary?

Hello everyone, I've been heavily considering joining the US military but I don't have a high school diploma yet. Does anyone know if a high school diploma is a pre-requisite to joining the military?

Yes, for most branches of the U.S. military, a high school diploma is required. They highly value recruits who have earned a high school diploma, as it indicates commitment, reliability, and some level of academic preparedness.

However, there are exceptions. The military will also accept individuals with a General Educational Development (GED) diploma, although this is often considered less favorably than a traditional high school diploma. The stance on this can vary between different military branches and as per the number of vacancies and the demand for new recruits at a given time, meaning sometimes the military may be more flexible.

For example, the Army and Army National Guard accept more GED applicants than other branches. However, it's crucial to know that each branch sets limits on the number of GED diplomas they accept each year, and these individuals must also earn high scores on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT).

Finally, while not a replacement for a high school or GED diploma, demonstrating commitment or achievement through other activities, such as being involved in sports teams, could potentially increase the likelihood of acceptance without a diploma.

Remember, each case is unique. It is advisable to contact a local recruiter to have a more comprehensive assessment of your chances and to understand the potential paths you can take.