Intro
Join the army with confidence! Discover the 7 essential requirements to enlist, including age, citizenship, education, physical fitness, and medical standards. Learn about background checks, moral character, and testing protocols. Understand the qualifications and prerequisites to kick-start your military career. Get ready to serve with our comprehensive guide!
Joining the army is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. If you're thinking of enlisting, it's essential to understand the requirements and what to expect during the process. Here are seven key requirements to join the army:
Meeting the Basic Requirements
The army has strict guidelines for who can join, and meeting the basic requirements is the first step. These include being a U.S. citizen or a resident alien, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also be in good physical health and pass a medical exam.
Ages and Citizenship
- You must be at least 17 years old to enlist, but you must be 18 to ship to basic training.
- You can be older than 35, but you must have prior service or be a chaplain.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien to enlist.
Education
- You must have a high school diploma or equivalent to enlist.
- Some jobs, like those in the medical or technical fields, may require a college degree.
- If you have a GED, you may be eligible to enlist, but you'll need to score high on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
Physical Requirements
The army requires you to be in good physical health to enlist. This includes passing a medical exam and meeting certain physical standards.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
- You must meet the army's BMI standards, which range from 19 to 30, depending on your age and height.
- If you're overweight, you may be eligible to enlist if you can lose weight and meet the standards.
Medical Standards
- You must pass a medical exam to enlist, which includes a physical exam, medical history, and lab tests.
- Certain medical conditions, like asthma or diabetes, may disqualify you from enlisting.
ASVAB Test Scores
The ASVAB test is a multiple-choice test that measures your aptitude in various subjects. You'll need to score high on the test to enlist.
Scoring High on the ASVAB
- You'll need to score high on the ASVAB test to enlist, especially if you want to qualify for certain jobs.
- The test covers subjects like math, reading, and science.
- You can study for the test and retake it if you don't score high enough.
Moral Requirements
The army has strict moral guidelines, and you'll need to meet certain standards to enlist.
Background Checks
- You'll need to undergo a background check to enlist, which includes a review of your criminal history.
- Certain crimes, like felonies, may disqualify you from enlisting.
Substance Abuse
- You must be substance-free to enlist, which includes not using marijuana or other illicit substances.
- You'll need to pass a urinalysis test to enlist.
Enlistment Process
Once you've met the basic requirements, you'll need to go through the enlistment process.
Meeting with a Recruiter
- You'll need to meet with a recruiter to discuss your options and determine which job is best for you.
- Your recruiter will help you through the enlistment process.
Taking the ASVAB Test
- You'll need to take the ASVAB test to qualify for certain jobs.
- Your recruiter will help you schedule the test.
Medical Exam and Physical Fitness Test
- You'll need to pass a medical exam and physical fitness test to enlist.
- Your recruiter will help you schedule the exam and test.
Gallery of Army Requirements
Army Requirements Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic requirements to join the army?
+To join the army, you must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien, be between the ages of 17 and 35, and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also be in good physical health and pass a medical exam.
How do I prepare for the ASVAB test?
+You can prepare for the ASVAB test by studying for the subjects covered on the test, such as math, reading, and science. You can also take practice tests to help you score high.
What is the enlistment process like?
+The enlistment process includes meeting with a recruiter, taking the ASVAB test, and passing a medical exam and physical fitness test. You'll also need to undergo a background check and substance abuse screening.
If you're thinking of joining the army, it's essential to understand the requirements and what to expect during the enlistment process. By meeting the basic requirements, scoring high on the ASVAB test, and passing the medical exam and physical fitness test, you can take the first step towards a rewarding career in the army.