Information for this webpage taken from Today's Military.
The Military is made up of six branches, each with their own active-duty and part-time components. Each varies in service commitment, location and how its members contribute to the overall mission of protecting our country, though all components are on the same rank-based pay scale.
Today’s Military comprises six Service branches, each with active-duty and part-time components. Part-time duty includes five Reserve and two Guard components. Location, mission and service commitments vary greatly, though all are on the same rank-based pay scale.
ACTIVE DUTY: FULL-TIME
Active-duty service members are full-time members of the Military, living on base or in military housing and immersed in military culture. After attending boot camp, they are typically stationed at a base either domestically or overseas for terms that typically last two to six years. During this time, they may also explore advanced training opportunities to further build hands-on and technical skills. If service members are deployed, the length of time away varies depending on a unit's specific mission.
RESERVE: PART-TIME
The Reserve was created to provide and maintain trained units at home while active-duty service members are deployed. With the exception of the Space Force, each military branch has a Reserve component under its command, which is available for active-duty deployment in times of war or national emergency.
Reservists are part-time service members, allowing them time to pursue a civilian career or college education while simultaneously serving their country. Members of the Reserve attend boot camp and are required to participate in training drills one weekend a month as well as a two-week program each year. Reservists can be deployed to serve alongside active-duty service members for special missions.
Reservists are part-time service members, allowing them time to pursue a civilian career or college education while simultaneously serving their country. Members of the Reserve attend boot camp and are required to participate in training drills one weekend a month as well as a two-week program each year. Reservists can be deployed to serve alongside active-duty service members for special missions.
NATIONAL GUARD: PART-TIME
The National Guard consists of the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. Every U.S. state and territory, as well as the District of Columbia, fields their own separate Guard unit, which operates distinctly and separately from the others. Each National Guard group goes by its state name (for example, the New York National Guard) and reports to that state’s governor.
The Guard’s focus is on homeland security and humanitarian relief. In addition to training drills one weekend a month and two full weeks per year, National Guard units assist communities in their state during emergencies like storms, floods, fires and other natural disasters.
During times of conflict, the president can federalize the National Guard, and its service members can be deployed overseas. National Guard members deployed overseas may see combat, but are also assigned noncombat humanitarian tasks, such as building schools and hospitals, training local peacekeepers and other community-building projects.
The Guard’s focus is on homeland security and humanitarian relief. In addition to training drills one weekend a month and two full weeks per year, National Guard units assist communities in their state during emergencies like storms, floods, fires and other natural disasters.
During times of conflict, the president can federalize the National Guard, and its service members can be deployed overseas. National Guard members deployed overseas may see combat, but are also assigned noncombat humanitarian tasks, such as building schools and hospitals, training local peacekeepers and other community-building projects.
SPLIT TRAINING: PART-TIME
The Army, Army National Guard and Coast Guard offer a split training option. High school students (and college and vocational students in the case of the Coast Guard) may train for two summers and serve one weekend a month during the school year. They receive pay for their weekend service and, after training is complete, begin Reserve duty. For more information, contact a recruiter.
There are two very different ways to join the Military: enlisting and commissioning as an officer. Knowing the difference will go a long way toward understanding how the Military works.
COMPARING ENLISTED & OFFICER CAREERS
The choice between enlisting or commissioning as an officer makes a significant impact on the type of experience and training a new recruit receives. Learn the key differences below.
EnlistedAll enlisted jobs require a high school diploma, although with certain exceptions a GED is acceptable. While enlisted careers do include infantry roles, most jobs involve hands-on training for mechanical, transportation, human service or office fields that transfer well to the civilian world.
Good to know: The Services assign careers to where each individual’s skills are most needed, so there is no guarantee service members will receive their first choice for a career. However, the Services do make an effort find the right fit for each service member. Almost all officer positions require a four-year degree or equivalent. Officers are the managers of the Military, acting in leadership roles that require planning, directing operations and making critical decisions. Officer positions also include careers that require advanced degrees, such as law and medicine.
Good to know: In exchange for a paid college education and a guaranteed post-college career, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets commit to serve as officers in the Military after graduation.
EnlistedAll enlisted jobs require a high school diploma, although with certain exceptions a GED is acceptable. While enlisted careers do include infantry roles, most jobs involve hands-on training for mechanical, transportation, human service or office fields that transfer well to the civilian world.
Good to know: The Services assign careers to where each individual’s skills are most needed, so there is no guarantee service members will receive their first choice for a career. However, the Services do make an effort find the right fit for each service member. Almost all officer positions require a four-year degree or equivalent. Officers are the managers of the Military, acting in leadership roles that require planning, directing operations and making critical decisions. Officer positions also include careers that require advanced degrees, such as law and medicine.
Good to know: In exchange for a paid college education and a guaranteed post-college career, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets commit to serve as officers in the Military after graduation.
UNDERSTANDING ENLISTED & OFFICER RANKS
The enlisted and officer paths each have a unique hierarchy of various ranks and insignias. Although ranks and insignias may differ between Service branches, they all indicate a service member’s level of responsibility, leadership and seniority.
Each rank is also associated with a paygrade that is part of a service member’s total compensation. For example, a Marine Corps sergeant has a paygrade of E-5, an Army warrant officer 1 has a paygrade of W-1, and a Navy captain has a paygrade of O-6. As a service member is promoted through the ranks of his or her respective Service branch and path, his or her paygrade will progress as well.
Each rank is also associated with a paygrade that is part of a service member’s total compensation. For example, a Marine Corps sergeant has a paygrade of E-5, an Army warrant officer 1 has a paygrade of W-1, and a Navy captain has a paygrade of O-6. As a service member is promoted through the ranks of his or her respective Service branch and path, his or her paygrade will progress as well.
While the Services have similar eligibility requirements, they may also reserve the right to enlist recruits using criteria that are based on the needs or vacancies of the current mission. The general requirements listed here apply to the U.S. Military as a whole. For specifics, please contact a recruiter.
Branch |
Requirements |
Minimum AFQT |
Air Force |
|
50 |
Army |
|
31 |
Coast Guard |
|
45 |
Marines |
|
32 |
Navy |
|
50 |
AGE REQUIREMENT
|
Military and service academy minimum entrance age requirements are 17 with parental consent or 18 without parental consent. Service academy applicants must meet the age requirements as of July 1 of the year of entry.
|
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
|
|
Physical requirements vary greatly across each Service branch. Generally speaking, potential recruits should be in good physical condition, of appropriate weight and able to pass a standard physical screening prior to entry. For specific information, please contact a recruiter.
|
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Success in any branch of the Military depends on a good education. A high school diploma is most desirable. Candidates with a GED (General Education Development) certificate can enlist, but some Services may limit their opportunities. It is very difficult to be considered a serious candidate without either a high school diploma or an accepted alternative credential.
CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENTS
U.S. citizens or Legal Permanent Residents (people who have an INS I-151/I-551 Green Card) may join the U.S. Military. For more information about citizenship, visit the U.S. Immigration and Nationalization (INS) website.
Properly documented noncitizens may enlist. However, opportunities may be limited. Contact a recruiter for more advice on a specific situation.
For enlistment purposes, the United States includes Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau.
Properly documented noncitizens may enlist. However, opportunities may be limited. Contact a recruiter for more advice on a specific situation.
For enlistment purposes, the United States includes Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau.
ASVAB BASICS
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a heavily researched and well-respected aptitude test developed by the Department of Defense. It measures a young adult’s strengths and potential for success in military training.
There are two versions of the test:
There are two versions of the test:
- The enlistment version of the ASVAB is given at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and is used for recruiting purposes only.
- The student testing program, also known as the ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP), is used for career exploration and is given in high schools and community colleges, at job corps centers and at correctional facilities.
ENLISTMENT ASVAB
In order to take the ASVAB at a MEPS for enlistment purposes, an individual will need to speak with a recruiter and schedule a time to take the test. ASVAB testing at a MEPS is self-paced and taken on a computer, and it may be retaken after a one-month waiting period. Those who do not live near a MEPS may take the test at a satellite location called a Military Entrance Test (MET) site.
The enlistment test, sometimes referred to as iCAT, or CAT-ASVAB, is adaptive, meaning it adapts to your ability level.
In addition to the individual standard scores, recruits receive an Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score. AFQT scores are calculated from four ASVAB subtests: arithmetic reasoning, mathematics knowledge, paragraph comprehension and word knowledge.
AFQT scores are used to determine enlistment eligibility. The Services use all parts of the ASVAB for classification into different jobs. Keep in mind that recruits may not always be assigned their first choice for a career — each Service branch places recruits based on a combination of need and the individual’s knowledge and area of strength.
The enlistment test, sometimes referred to as iCAT, or CAT-ASVAB, is adaptive, meaning it adapts to your ability level.
In addition to the individual standard scores, recruits receive an Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score. AFQT scores are calculated from four ASVAB subtests: arithmetic reasoning, mathematics knowledge, paragraph comprehension and word knowledge.
AFQT scores are used to determine enlistment eligibility. The Services use all parts of the ASVAB for classification into different jobs. Keep in mind that recruits may not always be assigned their first choice for a career — each Service branch places recruits based on a combination of need and the individual’s knowledge and area of strength.
ASVAB CEP
The ASVAB CEP is a complete career planning program. Students are given the opportunity to take the ASVAB at no cost and no commitment to military service. The ASVAB CEP also provides an interest assessment and planning tools to help young adults explore career field entry requirements and various career paths, both military and civilian.
High school students in grades 10, 11 and 12 and those enrolled at post-secondary institutions can participate in the ASVAB CEP. Students in 11th grade and beyond receive valid scores for enlistment. The ASVAB may be given in paper and pencil or computer adaptive forms. There are different strategies for taking the ASVAB, depending on which one your school offers.
ASVAB CEP test results are sent to schools so participants can explore career options with counselors. The scores report how the student performed on each subtest area, and how their scores compare with others who took the test. Participants receive three composite scores in verbal, math and science/technical skills used for career exploration, and the AFQT score is also reported.
Good to Know: ASVAB CEP participants who want to enlist in the Military can access their AFQT at asvabprogram.com. They can also access their Service-specific line scores at careersinthemilitary.com.
High school students in grades 10, 11 and 12 and those enrolled at post-secondary institutions can participate in the ASVAB CEP. Students in 11th grade and beyond receive valid scores for enlistment. The ASVAB may be given in paper and pencil or computer adaptive forms. There are different strategies for taking the ASVAB, depending on which one your school offers.
ASVAB CEP test results are sent to schools so participants can explore career options with counselors. The scores report how the student performed on each subtest area, and how their scores compare with others who took the test. Participants receive three composite scores in verbal, math and science/technical skills used for career exploration, and the AFQT score is also reported.
Good to Know: ASVAB CEP participants who want to enlist in the Military can access their AFQT at asvabprogram.com. They can also access their Service-specific line scores at careersinthemilitary.com.
Once you have talked to a recruiter, you’ll set a date to visit a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) to finish the enlistment process.
The MEPS is a joint Service organization that determines an applicant's physical qualifications, aptitude and moral standards as set by each branch of military service. There are MEPS locations all over the country.
The MEPS is a joint Service organization that determines an applicant's physical qualifications, aptitude and moral standards as set by each branch of military service. There are MEPS locations all over the country.
MEPS VISIT TIPS
Here are a few things you should keep in mind for the visit:
- Bring a Social Security card, birth certificate and driver's license
- Remove piercings, and do not wear clothing with obscene images
- If you wear either eyeglasses or contact lens, bring them along with your prescription, case and solution
- Get a good night’s sleep and arrive early
STEP 1: TAKE THE ASVAB
The ASVAB is a multiple-choice exam that helps determine the careers for which an individual is best suited. Both traditional pen-and-paper exams and a computer-based version are available. The ASVAB takes approximately three hours to complete and has questions about standard school subjects like math, English, writing and science. Each Service uses a custom combination of ASVAB results to produce scores related to different career fields. Alternatively, recruits may take the PiCAT, or Prescreen Internet Based Computerized Adaptive Test, which is an untimed, unmonitored version of the ASVAB that can be taken online.
In addition, some high schools offer and administer the ASVAB test to their students. If you have taken the test already, you should inform your recruiter and see if your results are still valid.
In addition, some high schools offer and administer the ASVAB test to their students. If you have taken the test already, you should inform your recruiter and see if your results are still valid.
STEP 2: PASS THE PHYSICAL EXAM
A recruiter will discuss physical eligibility requirements with you beforehand. The physical is a regular medical exam, similar to what you would receive from a family doctor. Some recruiters may conduct a short physical training (PT) test with potential recruits as well.
Examinations include:
Examinations include:
- Height and weight measurements
- Hearing and vision examinations
- Urine and blood tests
- Drug and alcohol tests
- Muscle group and joint maneuvers
- Specialized test if required (pregnancy test for women, body fat percentage test for those who are overweight, tests relating to any unusual medical history)
STEP 3: MEET WITH A COUNSELOR TO DETERMINE A CAREER
At this point, a service enlistment counselor meets with you to find the right job specialty. A few different factors contribute to career selection:
At this time, you will also be fingerprinted for your file, which is required for background checks and security clearances.
- Needs of the Service
- Job availability
- ASVAB score
- Physical requirements (for example, a recruit needs normal color vision for some careers)
- Recruit preference
At this time, you will also be fingerprinted for your file, which is required for background checks and security clearances.
STEP 4: TAKE THE OATH OF ENLISTMENT
Once your career has been determined, you are ready to take the Oath of Enlistment. In this statement, you vow to defend the United States Constitution and obey the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Family members are invited to watch and take photos.
I, (name), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the president of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.
I, (name), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the president of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.
STEP 5: AFTER THE MEPS
You’ll do one of two things, depending on the terms of your enlistment:
- Direct Ship: Report to Basic Training shortly after completing MEPS testing requirements. (It varies based on job assignment and branch.) A recruiter will provide instructions on transportation to Basic Training at this time.
- Delayed Entry Program (DEP): Commit to Basic Training at a time in the future, generally within one year. Most recruits enter DEP before shipping, including those who enlist before completing high school. Recruits enrolled in DEP may return to their homes until the time comes to report for duty.
Commissioned officers generally enter the Military with a four-year college degree or greater. In certain cases, enlisted service members can advance and transition to officers during the course of their military career as well. Officers are generally employed in management roles or highly specialized fields that require professional degrees (e.g., doctors, lawyers and chaplains).
An officer’s education often determines which career he or she will have in the Military. In most cases, the candidate will meet with a military advisor or career counselor during college to select a potential job specialty.
An officer’s education often determines which career he or she will have in the Military. In most cases, the candidate will meet with a military advisor or career counselor during college to select a potential job specialty.
The Paths to Becoming an Officer
If you’re interested in serving as an officer, you have five options:
OPTION 1: Attend a senior military college or service academy
- These highly competitive schools are virtually free of charge for those accepted. The government pays for each student’s tuition, room and board, uniform and books. Students are sometimes given a living stipend as well to help cover fees, a personal computer and other class supplies. In return, the student commits to serving as an officer for a set period after graduation, usually five years.
OPTION 2: Enroll at a traditional college or university with a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program
- ROTC programs provide officer training for students during college in exchange for scholarship money. In return, the students commit to serving for a set period of time after graduation. ROTC programs are offered at many schools and allow the student to have a traditional college experience while preparing for his or her future as an officer.
OPTION 3: ATTEND OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL (OCS) AFTER GRADUATING FROM COLLEGE
- After completing a four-year degree, graduates may enroll in OCS. This is also known as Officer Training School (OTS) in the Air Force. OCS/OTS varies in length between Services, but generally lasts 9 to 17 weeks. The Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course (PLC) is another alternative. It offers college students the opportunity to become commissioned officers in the United States Marine Corps. In each program, students can expect courses that focus on military subjects, physical training and leadership skills.
OPTION 4: RECEIVE A DIRECT COMMISSION AFTER EARNING A PROFESSIONAL DEGREE
- Direct Commission Officers (DCOs) are civilians who have special skills needed for military operations. These are usually individuals who have earned professional degrees in fields such as medicine, law, religious studies, engineering or intelligence. Groups such as the JAG Corps, Chaplain Corps and Medical Corps frequently employ DCOs.
- DCOs are required to attend Officer Indoctrination School (OIS), Officer Development School (ODS) or the Direct Commission Officer Indoctrination Course (DCOIC), depending on which Service they join. Regular age limits and requirements may be waived for some of these positions. Since the Services’ needs change rapidly, it’s best to speak with a recruiter for up-to-date information about direct commission opportunities.
OPTION 5: NONSCHOLARSHIP OPTIONS
- The Army offers the Green-to-Gold Non-Scholarship Program. This officer-path option is for Soldiers who have completed two years of college and who complete certain college degree requirements in two years. Benefits of this program include a stipend, pay for attending the Cadet Leadership Course (CLC) and other incentives.
- The Air Force offers the General Military Course, it is the first section of Air Force ROTC that is offered as a two-year course to college freshmen and sophomores who meet certain minimum requirements. It’s an excellent opportunity for students to try out the ROTC program without any obligation to join ROTC or serve.
Basic Training — often called boot camp — prepares recruits for all elements of service: physical, mental and emotional. It gives service members the basic tools necessary to perform the roles that will be assigned to them for the duration of their tour. Each of the Services has its own training program, tailoring the curriculum to the specialized nature of its role in the Military.
Boot Camp Basics
No matter which branch of the Service you choose, Basic Training is an intense experience. The purpose of this training isn’t to “break” recruits. In fact, the combination of physical training, field exercises and classroom time makes individuals strong and capable. It’s a tough process, but a rewarding one that many service members value for life.
To succeed in boot camp, you should prepare yourself physically and mentally. Daily cardio, weight training, pushups and situps are a must. You should also practice arriving early on a regular basis and sticking to a strict schedule. You should also delegate personal affairs to family or friends so you can focus on your training. For example, you will need to figure out who will pay the bills, collect the mail and manage bank accounts while you are at boot camp.
Good to know: By enlisting, you are contractually obligated to complete boot camp and serve. However, if you find that you are incompatible with serving, you can receive an administrative discharge.
To succeed in boot camp, you should prepare yourself physically and mentally. Daily cardio, weight training, pushups and situps are a must. You should also practice arriving early on a regular basis and sticking to a strict schedule. You should also delegate personal affairs to family or friends so you can focus on your training. For example, you will need to figure out who will pay the bills, collect the mail and manage bank accounts while you are at boot camp.
Good to know: By enlisting, you are contractually obligated to complete boot camp and serve. However, if you find that you are incompatible with serving, you can receive an administrative discharge.
Orientation
While each Service has different training schedules and requirements, the orientation process is basically the same across Services. During this time, new recruits might:
- Turn in enlistment packages (paperwork from the Military Entrance Processing Station [MEPS])
- Receive dental and medical exams
- Get immunizations
- Receive uniforms and training gear (shorts/sweats, T-shirts, etc.)
- Receive required haircuts (women can keep their hair long provided it can be worn within regulation)
- Create direct-deposit accounts for paychecks
Developing specific questions prior to the meeting is an excellent and recommended way to prepare. Here are some to get you started:
General Questions
General Questions
- How is your Service branch different from the others?
- What is the recruiting process like from beginning to end?
- Why should I join the (Service)?
- What's the Delayed Entry Program?
- What really goes on in Basic Training?
- What's the balance of classroom and physical training?
- What kind of condition do you have to be in at the start?
- What are the physical standards candidates have to meet?
- What are training and drill instructors like today?
- What percent of people who start Basic Training complete it?
- Can two friends go through Basic Training at the same time?
- How long does the first term last? Do you have programs of different lengths?
- Can an entrant choose the military job he or she wants? How is the job assignment made?
- Can you describe a couple of jobs?
- Can a trainee choose to serve overseas?
- How much does a new recruit get paid, and what are the benefits?
- How often are service members promoted?
- What kind of training comes after Basic Training?
- How good are your military job-training schools?
- What are all the ways a service member can earn college credits during enlistment?
- What are your tuition-support programs? How does an entrant qualify for them?