Requirements to Join the Army: A Comprehensive Guide

## Basic Eligibility Requirements ### Age Requirements - **Minimum Age**: 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18 without - **Maximum Age**: 35 for active duty enlistment - Age requirements may vary for Reserve and National Guard components ### Citizenship Status - U.S. citizen - Legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) - Legal resident of a U.S. territory ### Education * High school diploma (preferred) * GED (General Education Development) certificate accepted * Tier system evaluates educational background: - Tier 1: Traditional high school diploma - Tier 2: GED or alternative credential - Tier 3: No credential (rarely accepted) ## Physical and Medical Requirements ### Physical Fitness Standards Must meet minimum standards for: 1. Push-ups 2. Sprint-drag-carry 3. Deadlift 4. Plank 5. Two-mile run 6. Hand-release push-ups ### Medical Standards * Pass physical examination at Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) * Meet height and weight standards according to the [Army Body Composition Program](https://www.army.mil/e2/downloads/rv7/r2/policydocs/r600_9.pdf) * Have adequate vision (corrective lenses accepted) * Pass hearing tests * Have no disqualifying medical conditions ## Mental and Moral Standards ### ASVAB Testing * Must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) * Minimum score requirements: - 31 points for high school graduates - 50 points for GED holders * Higher scores may be required for specific Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) ### Background Requirements - **Criminal Record**: Pass background check with no felony convictions - **Drug Use**: Pass drug screening; history of drug use may disqualify - **Character**: Demonstrate good moral character and integrity - **Financial**: Must be financially stable with no significant outstanding debts ## Special Requirements and Considerations ### Officer Positions - Bachelor's degree required - Complete Officer Candidate School (OCS) - Additional testing and screening - Specific requirements based on specialty (JAG, Medical, etc.) ### Family Status * Single parents require special waivers * Must have family care plan if applicable * Dependency status evaluated ## Enlistment Process 1. **Research and Contact a Recruiter**: Gather information and speak with a recruiter 2. **Take the ASVAB**: Schedule and complete testing 3. **Medical Examination**: Complete physical at MEPS 4. **Background Check**: Undergo screening 5. **Select MOS**: Choose military occupation 6. **Review and Sign Contract**: Complete enlistment > Note: Meeting basic requirements doesn't guarantee acceptance. The Army evaluates candidates holistically and maintains discretion in acceptance decisions. ## Resources and Further Reading - [U.S. Army Official Website](https://www.goarmy.com/) - [ASVAB Official Site](https://www.officialasvab.com/) - [Military.com - Joining the Military](https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces) --- Requirements can change based on the Army's current needs and national security situations. Always verify current requirements with an official Army recruiter for the most up-to-date information.

Requirements to Join the Army: A Comprehensive Guide

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