Requirements to Join the US Military?

Hi there, I'm currently a junior and seriously considering joining the US military after I graduate. But, before I get really invested in this route, I want to make sure I meet most, if not all, the requirements. Can anyone outline the main eligibility criteria to join the US military? Any advice or guidance is much appreciated.

In the United States, joining the military involves meeting a set of eligibility standards. While these can vary slightly across the different branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard), there are some common requirements:

1. Age: For most branches, you must be at least 17 to join, and under 35 if enlisting with no prior service experience. The Marines have the youngest maximum age for enlisting - 28, while the Air Force and Coast Guard have the oldest - 39. Note that these are general age requirements and can sometimes be subject to waivers.

2. Citizenship: While U.S. citizenship is not always required for enlistment, it is a requirement for those seeking to become officers. Non-citizens can enlist if they hold a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card).

3. Education: A high school diploma is generally required. Some branches may allow enlistment with a GED, but opportunities can be somewhat limited.

4. Physical Health: Military service is physically demanding, so you must meet certain fitness and health criteria. Many branches have weight or body fat percentage requirements related to your height and age. You also have to pass a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) medical exam, which covers vision, hearing, mental health and other elements of physical health.

5. Mental Health: The military wants to ensure your mental readiness for the stresses of service. A history of certain mental health conditions could disqualify you from service or necessitate a waiver.

6. Legal Status: Having a clean legal record is crucial. Certain criminal records could disqualify you, although waivers may be available for some circumstances.

7. ASVAB: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test all potential recruits take. It determines the jobs you're qualified to perform in the military, and each branch has a minimum score requirement for enlistment.

Remember that each branch of the military has unique roles and cultures. So it's equally important to consider where you might fit best. I encourage you to speak with recruiters from different branches to understand more about these requirements. Make sure to prepare a list of questions before your meeting to ensure all your queries get addressed. Having an open and candid conversation about your aspirations and concerns with someone who knows the details is always beneficial.