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Do You need a highschool diploma to join the military?

Do You Need a Highschool Diploma to Join the Military?

The idea that you need a highschool diploma to join the military is a common myth among many young individuals interested in serving their country. However, the reality is that it depends on which branch of the military, the job you want, and your individual circumstances.

The Armed Forces Requirements

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The five branches of the United States military each have their own requirements when it comes to education level. Here is a general breakdown:

  • The Army: Requires a general educational development (GED) certificate or a highschool diploma. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test is also mandatory.
  • The Navy: Requires a minimum score of 35 or higher on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) or a valid highschool diploma.
  • The Air Force: Requires a minimum score of 35 or higher on the AFQT or a valid highschool diploma. However, a score of 65 or higher is required for enlisted enlistment in most cases.
  • The Marines: Requires a minimum score of 32 or higher on the AFQT or a valid highschool diploma.
  • The Coast Guard: Requires a minimum score of 50 or higher on the AFQT or a valid highschool diploma.

The AFQT: A Critical Consideration

The AFQT is an important consideration when deciding if you can join the military without a highschool diploma. The test measures three areas:

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Mathematics Knowledge
  • Arithmetic Reasoning

The test scores can be categorized into two primary groups:

  • Waivable: A minimum score of 31 or less on the AFQT and a highscore in relevant areas can be waived under certain circumstances.
  • Non-Waivable: A minimum score of 32 or higher on the AFQT is generally not waivable.

While a highschool diploma or GED certificate may exempt you from taking the ASVAB test, an AFQT score below the minimum requirements will disqualify you from joining.

Categories of Eligibility

The military employs a system of categorizations to determine an individual’s eligibility to join:

  1. General Standards for Enlistment: Considers the individual’s:

    • Education (up to maximum credits) up to 60 hours (Associates Degree)
    • ASVAB score or AFQT score

  2. Job Specifics: Considers the type of job the individual applies for. Certain high-demand or high-paying MOS (Military Occupational Specialties) may have stricter educational or ASVAB requirements.

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