I'm beginning to consider the military as a potential option post-high school but I feel somewhat clueless about the process. Can anybody clarify what the minimum requirements are for entry into each military branch?
Absolutely, here's a basic summary of the minimum entry requirements for each of the six branches of the United States military:
Army: The Army requires you to be at least 17 years old and under 35 years old. You must have a high school diploma, though a GED might be accepted in some circumstances. You also need to pass a physical fitness test and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
Navy: The Navy also has an age range of 17 to 39. You need to have a high school diploma and pass the ASVAB test. Some positions may also require passing a physical or special skills test.
Marines: For the Marines, you need to be aged 17 to 29, with a high school diploma. There's also a requirement to pass both a physical fitness test and the ASVAB test.
Air Force: The Air Force requires an age range of 17 to 39. Alongside a high school diploma, you need to pass the ASVAB test. Higher scores on the ASVAB often lead to more job opportunities within the Air Force.
Coast Guard: This branch requires you to be aged 17 to 31, have a high school diploma, and pass the ASVAB test. Prior to entry, you'll also need to complete a physical fitness assessment.
Space Force: Because the Space Force is so new, the standards for entry are still somewhat in flux. However, according to the Space Force website, the entry requirements should be similar to the Air Force's.
All branches of the military also require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and all applicants must meet medical, moral, and physical standards. Additionally, specific jobs or specialties within each branch may have further requirements related to skills, experience, or education levels.
These are only the minimum requirements, and exceeding them can increase your chances of acceptance into your chosen branch, or into certain positions within that branch. I hope this helps, and best of luck in whichever path you choose!
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