I need a little advice. I've been considering taking a gap year before starting college and enlisting in the military during that time. I've heard that if you enter the military with some college credits, you can start at a higher rank. My question is if this is true, which military branches do this? And how many credits would generally be required to enter at a higher rank?
Yes, enlisting in the military with college credits under your belt can indeed provide a more expedited path to advancement in rank. Each branch of the military has its own specific policy regarding this, but I can give you some broad insights:
In the Army and the Air Force, about one year of college (approximately 24 credits) can fast-track you to the E-2 rank, and about two years of college (approximately 60 credits) can up your entry to E-3. The Navy, on the other hand, requires about one year of college (roughly 24 credits) for E-2 and about two years or more (roughly 48 credits) for E-3.
The Marines are unique in that they require at least a full four-year degree to enter at a higher rank (E-2).
For Coast Guard, about one year of college (30 credits) can help you enter as an E-2, and an Associate's degree or higher can lead to E-3.
The newly formed Space Force is mirroring the Air Force's policies for enlisted ranks based on college credits, given that it falls under the Department of the Air Force.
Remember that policies can change over time, and specifics can also depend on other factors such as your scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). Therefore, it's crucial to speak directly with a recruiter for the most accurate and up-to-date information. They can also guide you on the best way to obtain an official transcripts from your school to prove your college credit.
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