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Over 10,000 recruits started their journey this year

Your Future Starts Here

Adventure. Purpose. Career. Discover what the military can offer you, from cutting-edge tech roles to leadership training and world travel.

100+
Career Paths
$40K
Avg. Scholarships
30+
Countries

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What It Takes to Join

Select a branch to see the enlistment requirements. Each branch has its own standards. Find the right fit for you.

Air Force

Air Force

Enlistment Requirements

Minimum Age

17-39 years old

17 requires parental consent

Education & Testing

High school diploma or GED

ASVAB score of 31+ (36+ for GED holders)

Citizenship / Residency

U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Physical & Medical

Must meet height, weight, and fitness standards

Pass medical exam at MEPS

Ready to learn more? Visit the official Air Force recruiting site.

Official Recruiter Site

How the Enlistment Process Works

From your first conversation with a recruiter to shipping out for training — here is what to expect.

Timelines vary by branch and individual circumstances — your recruiter will guide you through each step.

Benefits & Financial Security

More than a job — it's a complete package designed to set you up for success and build your financial future.

Education & Training

Free college tuition, certifications, and world-class training programs that translate to civilian careers.

Sign-On Bonuses

Earn up to $50,000 in enlistment bonuses depending on your chosen career field and commitment length.

Healthcare

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family — no premiums.

Housing

On-base housing or tax-free housing allowance to live off-base. Never worry about rent again.

Thrift Savings Plan

Government matching up to 5% on your retirement contributions — start building wealth from day one.

Student Loan Repayment

Qualify for up to $65,000 in student loan repayment programs to eliminate your debt faster.

Travel

See the world, experience new cultures, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Career Growth

Clear advancement paths, leadership development, and skills valued everywhere.

Life Insurance

Low-cost Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) with up to $500,000 in coverage.

Financial Counseling

Free financial planning and counseling services to help you make smart money decisions.

Build your credit faster than your counterparts!

Learn how military benefits can fast-track financial stability and credit growth.

This Is What Training Really Looks Like

A look at training life in each branch of the U.S. military — from day one to graduation.

Air Force daily life
3:42

Air Force

Army daily life
4:15

Army

Coast Guard daily life
2:58

Coast Guard

Marine Corps daily life
3:21

Marine Corps

Navy daily life
4:02

Navy

Space Force daily life
3:15

Space Force

Explore the Knowledge Hub

Access essential resources to help you prepare for your military journey.

Army

Army Future Soldier Guide | VetraFi

Get instant answers to your questions about joining the Army with our AI-powered guide.

AI Disclaimer: This AI provides general information based on official public sources. It does not replace speaking with an official recruiter who can address your specific situation.

NotebookLM can be inaccurate; please double check its responses.

Veterans Who Made History

From Service to Success

Military service has been the foundation for some of the world's most successful careers. These veterans prove that the skills, discipline, and leadership learned in uniform can lead anywhere.

Adam Driver
Actor

Adam Driver

U.S. Marine Corps
2002-2004

Served as a mortarman with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines before a medical discharge. Founded Arts in the Armed Forces. Academy Award nominated star of 'Marriage Story' and 'Star Wars'.

Zach Bryan
Music

Zach Bryan

U.S. Navy
2013-2021

Served 8 years as an active duty Navy member before being honorably discharged to pursue music full-time. Grammy-winning country artist with #1 albums and billions of streams worldwide.

Fred Smith
Business

Fred Smith

FedEx
FedEx
U.S. Marine Corps
1966-1970

Served two tours in Vietnam earning the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts. Founded FedEx in 1971, revolutionizing package delivery worldwide.

Rob Riggle
Actor & Comedian

Rob Riggle

U.S. Marine Corps
1990-2013

Retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 23 years of service including combat tours in Kosovo, Liberia, and Afghanistan. Known for SNL, The Daily Show, and films like 'The Hangover' and 'Step Brothers'.

Buzz Aldrin
Astronaut

Buzz Aldrin

U.S. Air Force
1951-1972

Fighter pilot who flew 66 combat missions in Korea. Became the second human to walk on the moon during Apollo 11 in 1969. Holds a doctorate from MIT.

Chuck Norris
Actor & Martial Artist

Chuck Norris

U.S. Air Force
1958-1962

Served as an Air Policeman at Osan Air Base in South Korea where he began training in martial arts. Six-time world karate champion. Star of 'Walker, Texas Ranger' and action film icon.

Elvis Presley
Music

Elvis Presley

U.S. Army
1958-1960

At the height of his fame, served as a regular soldier in Germany rather than accepting a special role. Rose to Sergeant. Became the 'King of Rock and Roll' with 18 #1 hits.

Morgan Freeman
Actor

Morgan Freeman

U.S. Air Force
1955-1959

Enlisted at 18 to become a fighter pilot but discovered his true passion was acting. Academy Award winner for 'Million Dollar Baby' with over 100 film credits.

Jimi Hendrix
Music

Jimi Hendrix

U.S. Army
1961-1962

Served in the 101st Airborne Division as a paratrooper at Fort Campbell. Earned his Screaming Eagles patch. Widely regarded as the greatest guitarist in rock history.

Clint Eastwood
Actor & Director

Clint Eastwood

Malpaso Productions
U.S. Army
1951-1953

Served as a lifeguard and swimming instructor at Fort Ord during the Korean War. Four-time Academy Award winner. Directed 'American Sniper' and starred in 'Dirty Harry'.

Ice-T
Music & Actor

Ice-T

U.S. Army
1979-1983

Served in the 25th Infantry Division as a squad leader. Pioneered gangsta rap and has starred in 'Law & Order: SVU' for over 25 years.

Phil Knight
Business

Phil Knight

Nike
Nike
U.S. Army
1959-1967

Served one year active duty and seven years in the Army Reserve. Co-founded Nike in 1964, building it into the world's largest athletic brand worth over $150 billion.

Ralph Lauren
Business

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren Corporation
Ralph Lauren Corporation
U.S. Army
1962-1964

Served two years in the Army before pursuing fashion. Built a global lifestyle empire from a tie collection into a $10 billion brand synonymous with American style.

Dave Thomas
Business

Dave Thomas

Wendy's
Wendy's
U.S. Army
1950-1953

Enlisted at 18 and served as a cook in Germany during the Korean War. Founded Wendy's in 1969, growing it to over 7,000 restaurants. Known for quality and his adoption advocacy.

S. Truett Cathy
Business

S. Truett Cathy

Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A
U.S. Army
1943-1945

Served in WWII and was honorably discharged in 1945. Founded Chick-fil-A in 1967, building it into America's favorite fast-food chain with over $21 billion in annual sales.

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Got Questions?

Real answers to the questions recruits actually ask.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

Supporting your child’s decision is easier when you have the right information. Get trusted resources or speak directly with a recruiter.

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Official resources only

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