How Long Does it Take to Get into the Military?
If you’re considering joining the military, one of the most common questions on your mind is probably "How long does it take to get into the military?" The answer may vary depending on the branch of service, your individual circumstances, and the program you’re applying to. In this article, we’ll break down the different paths to joining the military and provide an estimate of the time it takes to get in.
General Enlistment
For those with a high school diploma or equivalent
• Initial Application to Reception, Stabilization, and Assignment (RASP): 2-3 weeks: Once you’ve decided which branch you want to join, you’ll submit an application through the Military Accessions Vital Experiment (MOVE) online platform or in-person at a recruiter’s office.
• Assembling and Submission of Documentation: 1-2 weeks: You’ll need to gather and submit supporting documents, such as a copy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, and high school diploma or equivalent.
• MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) and Medical Exams: 4-5 days: You’ll undergo a series of medical exams, interviews, and aptitude tests at an MEPS facility.
• Background Check and ASVAB Scores: 1-2 weeks: The military will conduct a background check and review your ASVAB scores, which are used to determine your aptitude and ability to perform certain military duties.
• Contract Signing and Orientation: 1-2 weeks: If you’re cleared to enlist, you’ll sign a contract and attend a boot camp orientation before reporting to Basic Training.
Total time: 10-18 weeks (approximately 2.5-4.5 months)
For those without a high school diploma or equivalent
• GED Testing and Completion: 6-12 weeks: You’ll need to obtain a GED certificate before submitting your application.
• Initial Application to RASP: 2-3 weeks: Once you’ve completed your GED, you’ll submit your application and supporting documents.
• Assembling and Submission of Documentation: 1-2 weeks: You’ll need to gather and submit additional supporting documents, such as proof of completion of any necessary remedial coursework.
• MEPS and Medical Exams: 4-5 days: You’ll undergo a series of medical exams, interviews, and aptitude tests at an MEPS facility.
• Background Check and ASVAB Scores: 1-2 weeks: The military will conduct a background check and review your ASVAB scores.
• Contract Signing and Orientation: 1-2 weeks: If you’re cleared to enlist, you’ll sign a contract and attend a boot camp orientation before reporting to Basic Training.
Total time: 18-24 weeks (approximately 4.5-6 months)
Other Paths to Joining the Military
• West Point: 4-year college program
- Application and interviews: 6-12 months
- Plebe Summer: 7 weeks
- First-year college courses: 1 academic year
- Continuing education and commissioning: 3 academic years
Total time: 6-7 years (including college)
• OCS (Officer Candidate School): 12-week commissioning program
- Application and interviews: 6-12 months
- OCS training: 12 weeks
- Officer training: 3-6 months
- Commissioning and first assignment: 3-6 months
Total time: 2-4 years (including commissioning and initial assignment)
• NROTC (Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps): 4-year college program
- Application and interviews: 6-12 months
- College courses and naval science courses: 4 academic years
- Final semester at sea: 3-6 months
- Commissioning and first assignment: 3-6 months
Total time: 6-7 years (including college and commissioning)
• Air Force ROTC: 4-year college program
- Application and interviews: 6-12 months
- College courses and ROTC training: 4 academic years
- Field Training Encampment: 1 week
- Final semester at Air Force Officer Training School: 2-3 months
- Commissioning and first assignment: 3-6 months
Total time: 6-7 years (including college and commissioning)
In conclusion, the time it takes to get into the military can vary greatly depending on your individual circumstances, the branch of service, and the program you’re applying to. From enlistment to officer candidate programs, each path requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to serving your country. Whether you’re joining the military as a high school graduate or have already completed your college degree, the military has opportunities available for you.
