Post-Secondary Options Pt.2 – Handout #4
GRADE 8 LESSON 13
JOIN THE MILITARY
AIR FORCE
ARMY
COAST GUARD
MARINE CORPS
NAVY
Qualifications for Enlistment:
High School Diploma (Army will still take a GED)
US Citizen or Legal Immigrant admitted to the US for permanent residence
18 years or older (or age 17 with consent of parent or legal guardian)
Achieve minimum scores on the ASVAB test
Good health and pass medical exam (minimum height, weight and vision requirements as well)
1. Visit friends, family and neighbors who have served in various branches of the Armed Forces to
help determine which branch you might be best suited for.
2. Meet with a recruiter from each branch to determine which one you are best suited for.
3. Study military literature available in the counselor’s office and your local library.
4. Evaluate any physical limitations that you might have that could prevent you from enlisting in
one of the Armed Forces.
5. Compare military training opportunities with possible civilian occupations.
6. Plan to meet with military recruiters. Your counselor can arrange this meeting for you and it is a
good idea to have a parent or other adult present so you make sure to ask all the important
questions.
7. Compare benefits, tours of duty, training and promotion opportunities with the different
branches to determine your best option.
Military Academies:
Requires a Senator’s recommendation, high ACT/SAT scores and high GPA.
ROTC Programs: (Reserve Officer Training Corps Program)
Many colleges and universities offer ROTC programs for one or more branches of the military. In
addition to regular coursework, ROTC cadets take classes on military science and participate in physical
and leadership training outside the classroom. ROTC graduates can earn a B.A. or B.S., but must enter
the military as an officer with a four year active duty or eight year inactive duty commitment after
college.
Discussion:
What are some benefits of joining the military? What is important to consider when choosing this
option? Who is best suited for this option and how can you tell? Who might not be suited for this
option? What would be some of the reasons a student would choose this option after high school?
Why would you recommend this option for some students?