Joining the U.S. military comes with clear rules and expectations. Officials explained that citizenship, age, education, and physical fitness all played a role in determining eligibility.
U.S. citizens and some non-citizens are allowed to join the military. Non-citizens need to hold a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card.
They also have to speak, read, and write English fluently. Officials stressed that joining the military is not a pathway to enter the United States or to secure a visa.
Age limits by military branch
Each branch set its own age limits for active duty enlistment:
Air Force: 17 – 42
• Army: 17 – 35
• Coast Guard: 17 – 41
• Marine Corps: 17 – 28
• Navy: 17 – 41
• Space Force: 17 – 42
US added that in some cases, older applicants could still join, but they are advised to speak directly with a recruiter for details. Education and testing requirements
All recruits were required to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). Each branch set its own minimum score, and the results determine which jobs recruits could perform after enlistment.
Officials encourage candidates to use online resources to:
• Locate testing centres
• Access tips for test preparation
• Review sample questions from the 10 sections
• Understand how scores were calculated Recruiters are available to help applicants schedule the test and explain the score requirements.
Education standards A high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is necessary to enlist. However, officials pointed out that GED holders will face fewer opportunities.
Those with GEDs will have a better chance if they had earned college credits or achieved higher ASVAB scores.
To become an officer, candidates need a degree from a four-year college. Physical and medical requirements Medical examinations are part of the enlistment process. These exams assessed whether recruits were healthy enough to serve.
Each branch also required recruits to meet physical fitness standards. Passing a fitness test is mandatory, though the exact requirements varied by branch.
Recruiters will advise applicants to consult them directly to learn the specific standards. Recruiters are urged to consistently remind applicants that joining the U.S. military demands preparation across several areas: legal residency, age, education, testing, and physical fitness.
