What are the requirements to join the military?

## Basic Eligibility Requirements 🎖️ Joining the military is a significant commitment that requires meeting various criteria to ensure individuals are physically, mentally, and morally prepared to serve their country. ### Age Requirements - **Minimum Age**: 17 (with parental consent) or 18 without - **Maximum Age** varies by branch: - Army: 35 years - Navy: 39 years - Air Force: 39 years - Marine Corps: 28 years - Coast Guard: 31-35 years ### Citizenship Status You must be one of the following: 1. U.S. citizen 2. Legal permanent resident 3. Legal resident of a U.S. territory ### Education Requirements 📚 - High school diploma (preferred) - GED (General Education Development) certificate > Note: Some branches have stricter requirements for GED holders, such as additional college credits or higher ASVAB scores. ## Physical and Medical Standards 💪 ### Physical Fitness Requirements - Pass branch-specific physical fitness tests including: - Running - Push-ups - Sit-ups - Meet height and weight standards - Normal color vision (some positions) - Normal hearing - Good physical condition ### Medical Disqualifications Common conditions that may disqualify candidates: * Asthma * Depression requiring medication * Diabetes * Severe allergies * Heart conditions ## ASVAB and Testing 📝 - Mandatory Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test - Minimum scores vary by: - Branch of service - Desired military occupation - Education level ## Moral and Legal Standards ### Background Check - Criminal history review - Drug screening - Financial records check - Tattoos and body modifications assessment - Security clearance (for certain positions) ## Steps to Enlist 📋 1. Contact a recruiter 2. Take the ASVAB 3. Pass the physical examination at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) 4. Select a job (MOS/AFSC/Rating) 5. Take the Oath of Enlistment 6. Attend Basic Training ## Officer Programs For those interested in becoming officers, additional requirements include: * Bachelor's degree * Officer Candidate School (OCS) completion * Competitive GPA * Leadership experience * Higher physical fitness standards ## Resources For detailed information, visit the official websites: - [U.S. Army](https://www.goarmy.com/) - [U.S. Navy](https://www.navy.com/) - [U.S. Air Force](https://www.airforce.com/) - [U.S. Marine Corps](https://www.marines.com/) - [U.S. Coast Guard](https://www.gocoastguard.com/) - [Department of Defense](https://www.defense.gov/) - [Military Entrance Processing Station](https://www.mepcom.army.mil/) Remember that requirements can change, and waivers may be available for certain disqualifying factors. Always consult with a military recruiter for the most current information and specific requirements for your situation.

What are the requirements to join the military?

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