If you’re considering military service, chances are you have some questions — and that’s a good thing. The best kind of decision is an informed decision, and the best informed decisions start with gathering lots and lots of information. That’s why we’ve put together some of our top FAQs for your convenience.
If you’re 18+ (or 17 with parental consent), you’re off to a good start, but there are a few more factors at play, like education level and physical and moral standards, in addition to residency requirements.
There’s no wrong answer, but if you’re feeling stuck, consider doing some research into each branch’s role, culture and missions. You might even try speaking with recruiters and veterans in your area.
Want to talk things over with an expert? To find a recruiting office near you, visit your chosen Service branch’s official website.
A term of service is typically between two and six years, but it can vary based on Service branch and role, and you have the option to renew or separate from the Military each time you complete a commitment.
A lot! The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers full tuition for public colleges for up to 36 months, plus it offers a housing allowance and stipend for books and supplies.
Short answer: tons. Longer answer: technical, mechanical, health care, administrative and more, across hundreds of specialties — all that are equally helpful and sought-after in the civilian world. Every Service branch offers a unique experience through their advanced training schools, however the purpose and fundamentals of each remain consistent: to prepare you for success in your field.
Roles are informed based on ASVAB scores, Service branch requirements and preferences listed before you head off to Basic Training. If you’re interested in a particular specialty, consider discussing it with your recruiter and at your visit to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
Think you know all about the Military? There's even more to discover! Dive deeper to explore what joining is all about and imagine what serving in the Military could really look like for you.