Is completing high school necessary to join the military?

Super stressed senior here. I'm not entirely sure if I want to finish high school or if I might be better off just joining the military now. Does anyone know if it's necessary to graduate before enlisting?

It's totally normal to have thoughts about different paths after high school. You're actually in a unique position, because the military is one of the options that's available before you graduate high school.

Here's some information that may be useful: the U.S. military branches - including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard - do require a high school diploma. This illustrates your ability to stick with something and see it through, which is a valued trait in the military.

Now, when life doesn't go as planned, the military does provide another option. They accept a General Educational Development (GED) certification, but it's important to note, this isn't equal to a high school diploma in their eyes. A certain number of recruits are accepted each year with a GED, but the slots are limited.

So to give yourself the best chance and keep as many doors open as possible, it's recommended to stick it out and finish high school. This serves double duty because if you choose further down the line to leave the military, having a high school diploma can open up more opportunities.

Remember, you can always reach out to a military recruiter for clear, current information best suited to your individual circumstances. Just be sure to make a decision that aligns with your own personal and future goals.