Joining the Military in your 30s without a College Degree

Got a bit of a weird situation here - I'm considering the military route but I don't have a college degree and I won't be the typical age for recruits (I'll be around 30). Any advice on how this could affect me? What should I prepare for?

Joining the military in your 30s without a college degree is definitely not unheard of. Each branch of the military – Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard – has its own age limits for enlistment, so be sure to check each branch's requirements. However, generally, the maximum age for enlistment tends to be somewhere in the range of 35 (Army and Navy), 28 (Marine Corps), 39 (Air Force and Space Force), and 27 (Coast Guard), though these can vary and some waivers for age may be attainable, particularly if you possess special skills.

It's vital to consider fitness, as physical standards can be tough, and these standards do not lower with age. Engage in a consistent workout regimen ahead of time to ensure you meet the physical requirements of your preferred branch, focusing on strength, endurance, and cardiovascular activities, such as running, push-ups, and pull-ups.

It's also important to note that while not having a degree won't prohibit you from enlisting, it may impede your ability to enter as an officer. You generally need a bachelor's degree to be an officer, though there are programs that can help you earn your degree while serving.

Emotionally, there may be challenges as well. Not only will you be older than most of your comrades, but also your superiors might be significantly younger than you. Adjusting to this dynamic isn't always easy, so it's important to consider this factor.

Lastly, the military offers numerous benefits – healthcare, tuition assistance, job training, and retirement, to name only a few. Think about what your personal and career goals are. The military could help you reach those goals, even without a degree.