How to Get a Waiver for Military Service
Are you interested in joining the military, but you have a condition or characteristic that disqualifies you from serving? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people have successfully obtained a waiver to join the military despite their disqualifying condition. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of getting a waiver for military service.
What is a Waiver?
A waiver is a document that allows a person to join the military despite having a condition or characteristic that normally disqualifies them from service. Waivers are granted by the military’s Medical Review Board (MRB) or the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and are typically required for conditions such as:
• Medical conditions: Such as asthma, diabetes, or heart problems
• Physical limitations: Such as being overweight or having a physical disability
• Mental health conditions: Such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD
• Criminal history: Such as a felony conviction or a history of drug use
• Academic or aptitude issues: Such as poor grades or low scores on the ASVAB test
Types of Waivers
There are two types of waivers: Medical Waivers and Administrative Waivers.
• Medical Waivers: These waivers are granted for medical conditions that do not pose a significant risk to the individual or others. Medical waivers are typically required for conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
• Administrative Waivers: These waivers are granted for conditions that pose a significant risk to the individual or others. Administrative waivers are typically required for conditions such as a history of drug use or a felony conviction.
How to Get a Waiver
Getting a waiver for military service requires a multi-step process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before applying for a waiver, you must meet the basic requirements for military service. This includes:
• Age: You must be between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions)
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen
• Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Physical fitness: You must be physically fit and pass a physical exam
Step 2: Identify Your Disqualifying Condition
Identify the condition or characteristic that disqualifies you from military service. This could be a medical condition, a physical limitation, a mental health condition, a criminal history, or an academic or aptitude issue.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
Gather documentation to support your waiver application. This may include:
• Medical records: For medical conditions, you’ll need to provide medical records and a doctor’s statement explaining your condition and how it affects your daily life.
• Psychological evaluations: For mental health conditions, you’ll need to provide psychological evaluations and a doctor’s statement explaining your condition and how it affects your daily life.
• Criminal records: For criminal history, you’ll need to provide a copy of your criminal record and a statement explaining the circumstances surrounding your offense.
• Academic records: For academic or aptitude issues, you’ll need to provide your academic records and a statement explaining your academic struggles.
Step 4: Submit Your Waiver Application
Submit your waiver application to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) or the Medical Review Board (MRB). You can submit your application online or in person.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Wait for a decision on your waiver application. This can take several weeks or months. If your application is approved, you’ll be granted a waiver and can proceed with the enlistment process.
Step 6: Enlistment
Once you’ve been granted a waiver, you’ll need to enlist in the military. This involves taking the ASVAB test, undergoing a physical exam, and signing a contract with the military.
Tips for Getting a Waiver
Here are some tips to help you get a waiver for military service:
• Be honest: Be honest about your condition or characteristic. Withholding information or providing false information can result in your waiver being denied.
• Gather supporting documentation: Gather as much supporting documentation as possible to support your waiver application.
• Be prepared to explain your condition: Be prepared to explain your condition or characteristic and how it affects your daily life.
• Work with a recruiter: Work with a recruiter to help you navigate the waiver process and provide guidance on what documentation you need to submit.
Conclusion
Getting a waiver for military service requires a multi-step process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of getting a waiver and joining the military despite your disqualifying condition. Remember to be honest, gather supporting documentation, and be prepared to explain your condition. With persistence and determination, you can achieve your goal of serving in the military.