Requirements for Joining Military Branches

I'm starting to seriously consider joining the military after high school. Could anyone provide a rundown on the basic requirements I'll need to meet to be considered for each branch?

Absolutely, happy to provide you with some information on the various branches of the U.S. military and the basic eligibility criteria for each one!

1. U.S. Army: To join the Army, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. The age range to enlist is typically between 17-35. You will need to have a high school diploma or GED equivalent and pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. Additionally, you'll need to pass a military medical exam and meet certain height and weight standards.

2. U.S. Navy: The requirements for the Navy are similar to the Army's. You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident, aged 17-39, with a high school diploma or GED. You also need to pass the ASVAB, a medical exam, and meet height and weight requirements.

3. U.S. Air Force: Age requirements for the Air Force are usually between 17 and 39. Like the Army and Navy, you need to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, have a high school diploma or GED, pass the ASVAB test, pass a military medical exam, and meet specific height and weight requirements.

4. U.S. Marine Corps: The Marine Corps seeks U.S. citizens or legal residents aged 17-29 who have a high school diploma. Prospective Marines must pass the ASVAB, a military medical exam, and meet the Marine Corps' rigorous physical fitness standards.

5. U.S. Coast Guard: USCG eligibility criteria include being a U.S. citizen or resident, aged 17-31, in possession of a high school diploma or GED. Similar to other branches, you need to pass the ASVAB, a military medical exam, and meet the Coast Guard's own physical fitness standards.

6. U.S. Space Force: For the Space Force, currently most service members are transferred from the Air Force, so the eligibility requirements are very similar to the Air Force's. As a newer branch, the recruitment process might slightly differ.

In all branches, if you're under 18, you'll need parental consent to join. Additionally, having a felony conviction can disqualify you from service. These are just the basics, and each branch may have further requirements or exceptions for specific roles or positions.

As you consider this path, remember that military service is a significant commitment, so be sure to talk to military recruiters, your school's guidance counselor, and other trusted mentors to get a comprehensive understanding of what joining the military would entail. All the best in your decision-making process!