6 Ways To Join The Military After High School

Joining the military after high school can be a life-changing decision that offers a unique combination of education, career development, and service to one's country. For many young people, it's a chance to break away from the traditional college path and forge a new route to success. In this article, we'll explore the various ways to join the military after high school, highlighting the benefits and requirements of each option.

Why Join the Military After High School?

Before diving into the ways to join, it's essential to understand the benefits of joining the military after high school. By joining the military, you'll have access to:

• Education and training opportunities
• Career advancement and skill development
• Travel and exploration
• Camaraderie and a sense of belonging
• Competitive pay and benefits
• Opportunities for advancement and promotions

1. Enlisting Directly After High School

Enlisting directly after high school is a common route for many young people. To enlist, you'll need to:

• Meet the basic eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
• Pass a physical fitness test
• Complete Basic Combat Training (BCT)

2. Joining the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)

The ROTC program allows you to attend college while also training to become an officer in the military. To join the ROTC program, you'll need to:

• Meet the eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen and having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Apply for and receive a scholarship or financial aid
• Attend a participating college or university
• Complete the ROTC program, which typically takes four years

3. Attending a Military Academy

Attending a military academy is a prestigious way to join the military after high school. To attend a military academy, you'll need to:

• Meet the eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen and having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Apply for and receive a congressional nomination or presidential appointment
• Attend the academy, which typically takes four years
• Graduate as a commissioned officer

4. Joining the National Guard

Joining the National Guard is a way to serve part-time while also pursuing a civilian career. To join the National Guard, you'll need to:

• Meet the eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen and having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Pass the ASVAB test
• Pass a physical fitness test
• Complete Basic Combat Training (BCT)
• Attend Drill Weekends and Annual Training

5. Joining the Delayed Entry Program (DEP)

Joining the DEP allows you to enlist in the military while still in high school. To join the DEP, you'll need to:

• Meet the eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen and having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Pass the ASVAB test
• Pass a physical fitness test
• Complete the enlistment process
• Delay your entry into the military for up to a year

6. Joining the Military through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Joining the military through the CLEP program allows you to earn college credit while serving in the military. To join the CLEP program, you'll need to:

• Meet the eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen and having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Pass the ASVAB test
• Pass a physical fitness test
• Complete Basic Combat Training (BCT)
• Take CLEP exams to earn college credit

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Get Started on Your Military Journey

Joining the military after high school can be a life-changing decision. With the various options available, you can choose the path that best suits your goals and aspirations. Whether you enlist directly, join the ROTC program, attend a military academy, or join the National Guard, you'll have access to education, career development, and service opportunities that will shape your future.

So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards a rewarding military career. Research the options, talk to recruiters, and start your journey today!