Intro
Joining the US Army Special Forces requires rigorous training and dedication. Discover the 5 ways to become a part of this elite group, including meeting basic qualifications, enlisting in the Army, completing Special Forces Assessment and Selection, advancing through the Qualification Course, and earning a coveted spot in the Green Berets.
Becoming a part of the US Army Special Forces is a prestigious and challenging goal for many individuals. The Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, are an elite group of soldiers who undergo rigorous training to become experts in unconventional warfare, foreign language skills, and cultural expertise. If you're interested in joining the US Army Special Forces, here are five ways to increase your chances of success:
![US Army Special Forces logo](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/join-us-army-special-forces-54321.jpg)
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can even think about joining the US Army Special Forces, you need to meet the basic requirements. These include:
- Being a US citizen
- Being between the ages of 20 and 35 (although some exceptions can be made for older candidates)
- Scoring a minimum of 260 on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)
- Passing the Army's body fat percentage test
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Being able to obtain a Secret security clearance
Step 1: Enlist in the US Army
If you meet the basic requirements, the first step to joining the US Army Special Forces is to enlist in the US Army. You can do this by visiting your local Army recruiter or by enlisting online. Once you've enlisted, you'll attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to learn the basic skills of being a soldier.
Choose the Right Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
Once you've completed BCT and AIT, you'll need to choose a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) that aligns with the Special Forces. The most common MOS for Special Forces candidates is 18X, which is the Special Forces Enlistment Option. This MOS is specifically designed for candidates who want to become part of the Special Forces.
![US Army Special Forces MOS](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-mos-12345.jpg)
Step 2: Attend the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) Course
After you've chosen the right MOS, you'll need to attend the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course. This course is designed to assess your physical and mental abilities to determine whether you have what it takes to become a Special Forces soldier. The SFAS course is 24 days long and includes a series of physical and mental challenges that push you to your limits.
Complete the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC)
If you pass the SFAS course, you'll be invited to attend the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC). This course is also known as the "Q Course" and is designed to teach you the skills you need to become a Special Forces soldier. The SFQC course is approximately 62 weeks long and includes training in languages, cultural expertise, and unconventional warfare.
![US Army Special Forces Qualification Course](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-qualification-course-67890.jpg)
Step 3: Get Assigned to a Special Forces Unit
After you've completed the SFQC course, you'll be assigned to a Special Forces unit. This is where you'll begin your career as a Special Forces soldier, working alongside other elite soldiers to conduct missions around the world.
Stay Physically and Mentally Fit
To become a member of the US Army Special Forces, you need to be in top physical and mental condition. This means staying physically fit through regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet. It also means staying mentally fit through stress management techniques and a strong support network.
![US Army Special Forces physical training](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-physical-training-54321.jpg)
Step 4: Network with Current or Former Special Forces Soldiers
Networking with current or former Special Forces soldiers can be a great way to learn more about the process of becoming a Special Forces soldier. These individuals can provide valuable insights and advice on how to succeed in the selection process.
Stay Motivated and Focused
Finally, staying motivated and focused is crucial to becoming a member of the US Army Special Forces. The selection process can be long and challenging, and it's easy to get discouraged. However, by staying motivated and focused on your goals, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your dream of becoming a Special Forces soldier.
![US Army Special Forces motivation](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-motivation-12345.jpg)
Step 5: Prepare for the Challenges Ahead
Becoming a member of the US Army Special Forces is not easy. It requires a great deal of physical and mental effort, as well as a strong support network. By preparing yourself for the challenges ahead, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your dream of becoming a Special Forces soldier.
US Army Special Forces Image Gallery
![US Army Special Forces training](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-training-54321.jpg)
![US Army Special Forces Qualification Course](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-qualification-course-67890.jpg)
![US Army Special Forces physical training](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-physical-training-12345.jpg)
![US Army Special Forces networking](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-networking-54321.jpg)
![US Army Special Forces motivation](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-motivation-67890.jpg)
![US Army Special Forces challenges](https://www3.nnu.edu/imagex/us-army-special-forces-challenges-12345.jpg)
What is the minimum age requirement to join the US Army Special Forces?
+The minimum age requirement to join the US Army Special Forces is 20 years old.
What is the maximum age limit to join the US Army Special Forces?
+The maximum age limit to join the US Army Special Forces is 35 years old, although some exceptions can be made for older candidates.
What is the minimum APFT score required to join the US Army Special Forces?
+The minimum APFT score required to join the US Army Special Forces is 260.