Intro
Joining the military at 35? Discover the eligibility requirements and pathways to enlistment. Explore 5 ways to serve, including prior service enlistment, Officer Candidate School, and specialized programs. Learn how to navigate age waivers, medical standards, and education requirements. Start your mid-life military career today and serve with purpose.
Are you considering joining the military at 35? While the military's typical enlistment age range is between 17 and 28, there are still opportunities available for those who want to serve their country later in life. However, the enlistment process can be more challenging, and certain age restrictions and requirements apply. In this article, we will explore five ways to join the military at 35, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and requirements for each pathway.
Understanding the Military's Age Restrictions
Before we dive into the ways to join the military at 35, it's essential to understand the military's age restrictions. The maximum age for enlistment varies by branch:
- Army: 35 years old (must enlist before 35th birthday)
- Navy: 34 years old (must enlist before 34th birthday)
- Air Force: 39 years old (must enlist before 39th birthday)
- Marine Corps: 28 years old (must enlist before 28th birthday)
- Coast Guard: 27 years old (must enlist before 27th birthday)
Keep in mind that these age restrictions apply to new enlistees. If you have prior military service, you may be eligible to reenlist or join a different branch, even if you're over the maximum age.
Way 1: Enlist as a Prior Service Candidate
If you have prior military service, you may be eligible to reenlist or join a different branch, even if you're over the maximum age. As a prior service candidate, you can leverage your previous military experience to join the military at 35. You'll need to meet specific requirements, such as:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Meeting the branch's medical and moral standards
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Completing Basic Combat Training (BCT) or equivalent
Way 2: Join the National Guard or Reserve
Another way to join the military at 35 is to join the National Guard or Reserve. These components allow you to serve part-time while maintaining a civilian career. The age restrictions for the National Guard and Reserve are:
- National Guard: 35 years old (must enlist before 35th birthday)
- Reserve: 35 years old (must enlist before 35th birthday)
As a member of the National Guard or Reserve, you'll attend drill weekends and annual training, and you may be called to active duty in times of crisis.
Way 3: Enlist in the Army as a Special Forces Candidate
The Army offers a unique opportunity for older candidates to join the Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets. To be eligible, you must:
- Be between 25 and 35 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Meet the Army's medical and moral standards
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass the ASVAB test
- Complete BCT and Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
Way 4: Join the Military as a Commissioned Officer
If you have a bachelor's degree and meet specific requirements, you can join the military as a commissioned officer. The age restrictions for commissioned officers vary by branch:
- Army: 35 years old (must commission before 35th birthday)
- Navy: 42 years old (must commission before 42nd birthday)
- Air Force: 39 years old (must commission before 39th birthday)
- Marine Corps: 28 years old (must commission before 28th birthday)
- Coast Guard: 27 years old (must commission before 27th birthday)
As a commissioned officer, you'll attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) and receive a commission as an officer in the military.
Way 5: Enlist in the Army's Army Civilian Service (ACS)
The Army's Army Civilian Service (ACS) offers a unique opportunity for older candidates to serve in a civilian capacity. ACS members support the Army's mission in various roles, such as administration, logistics, and maintenance. To be eligible, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Meet the Army's medical and moral standards
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a background check
Gallery of Military Career Options
Military Career Options Gallery
Conclusion
Joining the military at 35 requires careful consideration and planning. While the enlistment process can be challenging, there are several pathways available for older candidates. Whether you choose to enlist as a prior service candidate, join the National Guard or Reserve, or become a commissioned officer, you'll have the opportunity to serve your country and develop valuable skills. Remember to research each option thoroughly and consult with a recruiter to determine the best fit for your goals and qualifications.