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Joining the U.S. Army is more than just getting a job—it’s a career that offers competitive pay, education benefits, healthcare, housing assistance, leadership training, and the opportunity to serve your country.
If you’re planning to join in 2026, this guide explains every step, from eligibility requirements to basic training.
Step 1: Check If You Are Eligible
Before applying, make sure you meet the current requirements.
Basic Requirements
- Age: 17–42 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
- High school diploma or GED (a diploma is generally more competitive)
- Meet medical and physical fitness standards
- Pass a background screening
- Achieve a qualifying score on the ASVAB entrance exam.
Step 2: Choose the Right Army Career (MOS)
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is selecting your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Popular careers include:
- Infantry
- Military Police
- Combat Medic
- Cyber Security
- Intelligence Analyst
- Aviation
- Information Technology
- Engineering
- Logistics
- Human Resources
Your ASVAB score helps determine which jobs you qualify for.
Step 3: Contact an Army Recruiter
A recruiter will:
- Explain your options
- Review your eligibility
- Answer your questions
- Help prepare your application
- Schedule your testing and medical screening.
Step 4: Take the ASVAB Test
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) measures your strengths in areas such as:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Reading
- Mechanical knowledge
- Electronics
- Problem solving
A higher score opens the door to more career options.
Step 5: Visit MEPS
At the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), you’ll complete:
- Medical examination
- Vision and hearing tests
- Drug screening
- Background verification
- Job counseling
If you qualify, you’ll choose your Army career and sign your enlistment paperwork.
Step 6: Take the Oath of Enlistment
After approval, you’ll officially become part of the U.S. Army through the Oath of Enlistment.
Many recruits then enter the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) before shipping to training.
Step 7: Attend Basic Combat Training
Basic Combat Training usually lasts about 10 weeks and includes:
- Physical fitness
- Weapons training
- Field exercises
- Teamwork
- Military discipline
- First aid
- Army values
This is where civilians become Soldiers.
U.S. Army Salary in 2026
New Soldiers receive:
- Monthly base pay
- Free healthcare
- Housing allowance (when eligible)
- Food allowance
- Paid vacation
- Retirement benefits
- Special bonuses for some career fields.