Military Opportunities without a High School Diploma

What sort of military opportunities exist if one doesn't have a high school diploma? I understand the usual route is to graduate high school before enlisting, but are there exceptions to this?

In a majority of cases, the military requires at least a high school diploma or a GED for enlistment. However, there are certainly exceptions.

Each branch of the U.S. military has slightly different requirements. For example:

1. The Navy and the Marines accept a few individuals each year who don't have a high school diploma or a GED, but this is rare and competitive. Generally, they would much prefer a GED at minimum.

2. The Army does allow individuals without a high school diploma to enlist in certain circumstances, but they also greatly prefer at least a GED.

3. The Air Force requires at least a high school diploma or a GED.

That said, each branch of the military has programs to help individuals obtain a GED if they do not have a high school diploma. Once an individual has this credential, they can enlist as they normally would.

In addition, the National Guard offers the Split Training Option for juniors and seniors in high school, which allows you to begin your military training during the summer between your junior and senior year of high school. After graduation, you complete your training.

Keep in mind that even without a high school diploma or GED, meeting the rest of the military’s requirements—such as those for age, physical fitness, criminal record, and citizenship or residency—is still necessary.

However, it's important to remember that the military isn't your only path if you haven't finished high school. You might consider trade or vocational schools, apprenticeships, or job corps programs, all of which can lead to fulfilling careers.