Eligibility rules to join the U.S. military can be a little confusing. Different rules exist for enlisting and for officer programs.
Enlisting: Enlisted members do the hands-on work of the military. They usually need at least a high school degree; a GED may not suffice.
Officer: Officers are the managers of the military. Most officer programs require a college degree at minimum and are very competitive. Many officers have master's or higher degrees.
Minimum Enlistment Qualifications
Before you visit your local recruiter, be sure you meet the minimum qualifications for serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Some qualifications are required by all five services:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or have a U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
- You must be at least 17 years old (17-year-old applicants require parental consent).
- You must (with few exceptions) have a high school diploma.
- You must pass a physical medical exam.
Each branch has slightly different enlistment requirements:
Military Branch Requirements
| To join the active duty... | You must: |
| Air Force |
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| Army |
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| Coast Guard |
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| Marine Corps |
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| Navy |
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| Space Force |
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Age limits vary based on active-duty, previous service or reserve. In addition, 17-year-old applicants require parental consent.
Interested in Joining the Military?
We can put you in touch with recruiters from the different military branches. Learn about the benefits of serving your country, paying for school, military career paths, and more: sign up now and hear from a recruiter near you.
