Steps to Join
Ready to take the first step to becoming an enlisted Soldier or a commissioned Officer? Here’s what you need to know.
Portrait of a male Soldier wearing the Army Green Service Uniform
Speak with a recruiter
All recruiters know the Army well and can help you understand if it’s right for you. They’ll help you define your goals and guide you in the right direction.
Take a placement exam
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a placement test that helps you find out which job in the Army is right for you.
Complete a physical exam
Your recruiter will help you get an appointment set up at the nearest Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), where an evaluation will take place to see if you are physically ready to serve.
Find an Army Job
There are over 200+ available job opportunities in the Army that your career counselor can help you choose from. The score you get on your placement exam is important since it’s a major factor in deciding which Army job is best for you.
Sign a contract and prepare for Basic Training
The final step is to get sworn into the Army by taking the Oath of Enlistment, which is a pledge to defend the Constitution throughout your military career. Once you’ve taken the Oath, you’ll prepare to attend Basic Training. This is where you’ll gain the physical and mental skills you’ll need to serve. More importantly, it’s where you’ll be introduced to the values and traditions that come with being a Soldier.
If you’re thinking about joining the Army, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
First Name
Last Name
Date of Birth
Email
Phone
Zip Code
Choose the Army career path you’re most interested in.
Full-Time Service
Weekend & Part-Time Service
Health Care Students & Professionals
Leadership Training for College (ROTC)
Answer True or False to the following statements based on your current situation: (optional)
I’m a U.S. citizen or permanent and legal resident (I-551 card).
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
By checking this box and submitting this form, I agree to receive communications from the U.S. Army (via email and text). I verify this is my mobile number and consent to receive up to 2 text messages/week via automated technology on the behalf of the US Army. I also agree to the Waiver & Release of Liability and the Privacy Policy. Message and Data rates may apply.
Send Me Information
Privacy Act Notice: The above disclosure is voluntary. All information will be used strictly for recruiting purposes. The authority for the collection of this information is Title 10, United States Code, Sections 503, 505, 508, and 12102, and EO 9397. For more information, please review our Privacy & Security Notice.
Four Ways to Become an Officer
Officers are important leaders in the Army, tasked with making important decisions and being responsible for the safety of Soldiers under their command. To become an Officer, you must have a bachelor’s degree by the time you are commissioned. Here are the four ways you can earn a commission to become an Army Officer:
An ROTC Cadet smiles while in auditorium
Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
Attend ROTC on your college campus to graduate with a guaranteed career as an Army Officer. Your Recruiting Operations Officer will be the best person to answer any questions about enrolling in ROTC electives, scholarship opportunities, and more.
U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Prepare to lead while earning a degree from the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point. You’ll have to request nomination from a U.S. Congressman or Senator to be eligible to apply.
Officer Candidate School
Train in the Army’s 12-week intensive training program designed for enlisted Soldiers and civilians with college degrees to earn a commission to become an Officer. You’ll be expected to complete Basic Training and other required training if you haven’t already, and pass a board review.
Direct Commission
Put your professional experience to use by earning a direct commission. This path promotes civilians with professional skills in fields like medicine and law directly into an Officer rank. You’ll have to meet the right qualifications and requirements to earn a direct commission, and you’ll be expected to complete the Army’s Direct Commissioning Course and Basic Leadership Course.
Common Questions
How do I know if I meet the requirements to join the Army?
When applying to be an enlisted Soldier or Army Officer, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who meets the age requirement. To enlist, you must have a high school diploma, GED, or a plan to get one. The main difference when applying to be an Army Officer is that you need to have a bachelor’s degree—not necessarily at the start of the process, but by the time you’re commissioned as an Officer. Find out more details about the age, medical, physical, and education requirements to join for enlisted Soldiers and Army Officers before applying.
How long does it take to join?
For enlisted Soldiers, the time between being sworn in and Basic Training could be as short as five days, or as long as a year, but the average time it takes is usually between 30-45 days. It also varies on the job assignment and branch of service. For Army Officers, the time to join depends on the path you choose. If you choose Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) or the U.S. Military Academy (USMA), you’ll become an Officer after completing four years of college. If you’re going through Officer Candidate School (OCS) or direct commission, the time it will take to join will depend on when you finish your four-year degree and complete specific courses and certifications related to your branch.
Do I need a college degree to join?
A college degree is not required to enlist in the Army, but you do need to be a college graduate if you plan to become a commissioned Officer.
How do I learn more about joining?
Take a look at the physical fitness requirements for more specific details about becoming an enlisted Soldier or an Army Officer.
Does everyone have to pass a physical fitness test to join?
For both the enlisted Soldier and commissioned Officer paths, you’ll need to meet the height and weight requirements for your age and gender before joining. A recruiter will work with you after you join to meet the physical requirements of your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) evaluates your physical and mental abilities, starting at Basic Training for enlisted Soldiers and during initial training for those commissioning as Officers. Everyone will need to pass the ACFT during training and again several times a year for every year of service. Scores are recorded twice a year for active duty Soldiers in the Army, or once a year for members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. The Army will be there to support your growth with resources during every step of the evaluation process to ensure your success.
Get in Touch
Ready to take the next step? Reach out and we’ll help you get there.
Ready to take the first step to becoming an enlisted Soldier or a commissioned Officer? Here’s what you need to know.
Portrait of a male Soldier wearing the Army Green Service Uniform
Speak with a recruiter
All recruiters know the Army well and can help you understand if it’s right for you. They’ll help you define your goals and guide you in the right direction.
Take a placement exam
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a placement test that helps you find out which job in the Army is right for you.
Complete a physical exam
Your recruiter will help you get an appointment set up at the nearest Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), where an evaluation will take place to see if you are physically ready to serve.
Find an Army Job
There are over 200+ available job opportunities in the Army that your career counselor can help you choose from. The score you get on your placement exam is important since it’s a major factor in deciding which Army job is best for you.
Sign a contract and prepare for Basic Training
The final step is to get sworn into the Army by taking the Oath of Enlistment, which is a pledge to defend the Constitution throughout your military career. Once you’ve taken the Oath, you’ll prepare to attend Basic Training. This is where you’ll gain the physical and mental skills you’ll need to serve. More importantly, it’s where you’ll be introduced to the values and traditions that come with being a Soldier.
If you’re thinking about joining the Army, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
First Name
Last Name
Date of Birth
Email
Phone
Zip Code
Choose the Army career path you’re most interested in.
Full-Time Service
Weekend & Part-Time Service
Health Care Students & Professionals
Leadership Training for College (ROTC)
Answer True or False to the following statements based on your current situation: (optional)
I’m a U.S. citizen or permanent and legal resident (I-551 card).
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
By checking this box and submitting this form, I agree to receive communications from the U.S. Army (via email and text). I verify this is my mobile number and consent to receive up to 2 text messages/week via automated technology on the behalf of the US Army. I also agree to the Waiver & Release of Liability and the Privacy Policy. Message and Data rates may apply.
Send Me Information
Privacy Act Notice: The above disclosure is voluntary. All information will be used strictly for recruiting purposes. The authority for the collection of this information is Title 10, United States Code, Sections 503, 505, 508, and 12102, and EO 9397. For more information, please review our Privacy & Security Notice.
Four Ways to Become an Officer
Officers are important leaders in the Army, tasked with making important decisions and being responsible for the safety of Soldiers under their command. To become an Officer, you must have a bachelor’s degree by the time you are commissioned. Here are the four ways you can earn a commission to become an Army Officer:
An ROTC Cadet smiles while in auditorium
Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
Attend ROTC on your college campus to graduate with a guaranteed career as an Army Officer. Your Recruiting Operations Officer will be the best person to answer any questions about enrolling in ROTC electives, scholarship opportunities, and more.
U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Prepare to lead while earning a degree from the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point. You’ll have to request nomination from a U.S. Congressman or Senator to be eligible to apply.
Officer Candidate School
Train in the Army’s 12-week intensive training program designed for enlisted Soldiers and civilians with college degrees to earn a commission to become an Officer. You’ll be expected to complete Basic Training and other required training if you haven’t already, and pass a board review.
Direct Commission
Put your professional experience to use by earning a direct commission. This path promotes civilians with professional skills in fields like medicine and law directly into an Officer rank. You’ll have to meet the right qualifications and requirements to earn a direct commission, and you’ll be expected to complete the Army’s Direct Commissioning Course and Basic Leadership Course.
Common Questions
How do I know if I meet the requirements to join the Army?
When applying to be an enlisted Soldier or Army Officer, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who meets the age requirement. To enlist, you must have a high school diploma, GED, or a plan to get one. The main difference when applying to be an Army Officer is that you need to have a bachelor’s degree—not necessarily at the start of the process, but by the time you’re commissioned as an Officer. Find out more details about the age, medical, physical, and education requirements to join for enlisted Soldiers and Army Officers before applying.
How long does it take to join?
For enlisted Soldiers, the time between being sworn in and Basic Training could be as short as five days, or as long as a year, but the average time it takes is usually between 30-45 days. It also varies on the job assignment and branch of service. For Army Officers, the time to join depends on the path you choose. If you choose Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) or the U.S. Military Academy (USMA), you’ll become an Officer after completing four years of college. If you’re going through Officer Candidate School (OCS) or direct commission, the time it will take to join will depend on when you finish your four-year degree and complete specific courses and certifications related to your branch.
Do I need a college degree to join?
A college degree is not required to enlist in the Army, but you do need to be a college graduate if you plan to become a commissioned Officer.
How do I learn more about joining?
Take a look at the physical fitness requirements for more specific details about becoming an enlisted Soldier or an Army Officer.
Does everyone have to pass a physical fitness test to join?
For both the enlisted Soldier and commissioned Officer paths, you’ll need to meet the height and weight requirements for your age and gender before joining. A recruiter will work with you after you join to meet the physical requirements of your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) evaluates your physical and mental abilities, starting at Basic Training for enlisted Soldiers and during initial training for those commissioning as Officers. Everyone will need to pass the ACFT during training and again several times a year for every year of service. Scores are recorded twice a year for active duty Soldiers in the Army, or once a year for members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. The Army will be there to support your growth with resources during every step of the evaluation process to ensure your success.
Get in Touch
Ready to take the next step? Reach out and we’ll help you get there.
Ready to take the first step to becoming an enlisted Soldier or a commissioned Officer? Here’s what you need to know.
Portrait of a male Soldier wearing the Army Green Service Uniform
Speak with a recruiter
All recruiters know the Army well and can help you understand if it’s right for you. They’ll help you define your goals and guide you in the right direction.
Take a placement exam
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a placement test that helps you find out which job in the Army is right for you.
Complete a physical exam
Your recruiter will help you get an appointment set up at the nearest Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), where an evaluation will take place to see if you are physically ready to serve.
Find an Army Job
There are over 200+ available job opportunities in the Army that your career counselor can help you choose from. The score you get on your placement exam is important since it’s a major factor in deciding which Army job is best for you.
Sign a contract and prepare for Basic Training
The final step is to get sworn into the Army by taking the Oath of Enlistment, which is a pledge to defend the Constitution throughout your military career. Once you’ve taken the Oath, you’ll prepare to attend Basic Training. This is where you’ll gain the physical and mental skills you’ll need to serve. More importantly, it’s where you’ll be introduced to the values and traditions that come with being a Soldier.
If you’re thinking about joining the Army, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
First Name
Last Name
Date of Birth
Email
Phone
Zip Code
Choose the Army career path you’re most interested in.
Full-Time Service
Weekend & Part-Time Service
Health Care Students & Professionals
Leadership Training for College (ROTC)
Answer True or False to the following statements based on your current situation: (optional)
I’m a U.S. citizen or permanent and legal resident (I-551 card).
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
True
False
By checking this box and submitting this form, I agree to receive communications from the U.S. Army (via email and text). I verify this is my mobile number and consent to receive up to 2 text messages/week via automated technology on the behalf of the US Army. I also agree to the Waiver & Release of Liability and the Privacy Policy. Message and Data rates may apply.
Send Me Information
Privacy Act Notice: The above disclosure is voluntary. All information will be used strictly for recruiting purposes. The authority for the collection of this information is Title 10, United States Code, Sections 503, 505, 508, and 12102, and EO 9397. For more information, please review our Privacy & Security Notice.
Four Ways to Become an Officer
Officers are important leaders in the Army, tasked with making important decisions and being responsible for the safety of Soldiers under their command. To become an Officer, you must have a bachelor’s degree by the time you are commissioned. Here are the four ways you can earn a commission to become an Army Officer:
An ROTC Cadet smiles while in auditorium
Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
Attend ROTC on your college campus to graduate with a guaranteed career as an Army Officer. Your Recruiting Operations Officer will be the best person to answer any questions about enrolling in ROTC electives, scholarship opportunities, and more.
U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Prepare to lead while earning a degree from the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point. You’ll have to request nomination from a U.S. Congressman or Senator to be eligible to apply.
Officer Candidate School
Train in the Army’s 12-week intensive training program designed for enlisted Soldiers and civilians with college degrees to earn a commission to become an Officer. You’ll be expected to complete Basic Training and other required training if you haven’t already, and pass a board review.
Direct Commission
Put your professional experience to use by earning a direct commission. This path promotes civilians with professional skills in fields like medicine and law directly into an Officer rank. You’ll have to meet the right qualifications and requirements to earn a direct commission, and you’ll be expected to complete the Army’s Direct Commissioning Course and Basic Leadership Course.
Common Questions
How do I know if I meet the requirements to join the Army?
When applying to be an enlisted Soldier or Army Officer, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who meets the age requirement. To enlist, you must have a high school diploma, GED, or a plan to get one. The main difference when applying to be an Army Officer is that you need to have a bachelor’s degree—not necessarily at the start of the process, but by the time you’re commissioned as an Officer. Find out more details about the age, medical, physical, and education requirements to join for enlisted Soldiers and Army Officers before applying.
How long does it take to join?
For enlisted Soldiers, the time between being sworn in and Basic Training could be as short as five days, or as long as a year, but the average time it takes is usually between 30-45 days. It also varies on the job assignment and branch of service. For Army Officers, the time to join depends on the path you choose. If you choose Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) or the U.S. Military Academy (USMA), you’ll become an Officer after completing four years of college. If you’re going through Officer Candidate School (OCS) or direct commission, the time it will take to join will depend on when you finish your four-year degree and complete specific courses and certifications related to your branch.
Do I need a college degree to join?
A college degree is not required to enlist in the Army, but you do need to be a college graduate if you plan to become a commissioned Officer.
How do I learn more about joining?
Take a look at the physical fitness requirements for more specific details about becoming an enlisted Soldier or an Army Officer.
Does everyone have to pass a physical fitness test to join?
For both the enlisted Soldier and commissioned Officer paths, you’ll need to meet the height and weight requirements for your age and gender before joining. A recruiter will work with you after you join to meet the physical requirements of your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) evaluates your physical and mental abilities, starting at Basic Training for enlisted Soldiers and during initial training for those commissioning as Officers. Everyone will need to pass the ACFT during training and again several times a year for every year of service. Scores are recorded twice a year for active duty Soldiers in the Army, or once a year for members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. The Army will be there to support your growth with resources during every step of the evaluation process to ensure your success.
Get in Touch
Ready to take the next step? Reach out and we’ll help you get there.
Great insight for those interested in joining. Thanks for sharing.