Which special forces unit is the hardest to qualify for in the military?

So I'm a rising junior, and I'm considering special forces as a career option post high-school. I would like to know, among all the various units in the special forces, which one is generally considered as the toughest to get into? Appreciate all the help I can get. Cheers!

The answer to your question is subjective as numerous factors come into play such as a person's physical fitness level, mental toughness, leadership skills, and prior experience in the military. However, many argue that the Navy SEALs and the Army's Delta Force are among the hardest to qualify for in the U.S. military's special forces.

The Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land Teams) are famously known for their rigorous training process, which includes a six-month long Basic Underwater Demolition/SEALs (BUD/S) training program. The dropout rate often exceeds 75% to 80%. The training process tests a candidate's physical limits, with drills such as long-distance underwater swims and overland runs, along with mental and leadership challenges.

Similarly, Delta Force – officially known as 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D) – is another challenging unit to qualify for. Mostly recruiting from the Rangers and Special Forces groups, the selection process includes intense physical and psychological evaluations. After selection, members undergo a six-month Operator Training Course focused on skills such as marksmanship and covert tactics. In addition to these, the Circuit – a series of grueling exercises – is infamous for testing candidates' breaking points.

Remember, while these units are often cited as the toughest, each special forces unit has its unique qualifications and training regimen. The difficulty can be variable depending on an individual's strengths and weaknesses.