Steps to Enlist in the United States Armed Forces:

 

A Guide for High School Students

 

At Our Community Salutes – Fayetteville, we honor and support students who choose to serve our nation. If you’re a high school student considering enlistment into the U.S. Armed Services, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.

​

1. Learn About Each Military Branch

Explore Your Options

• Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, or National Guard

• Research each branch’s mission, lifestyle, roles, and benefits

• Attend school-hosted military presentations or speak with recruiters
   

2. Meet with a Recruiter

Set Up a Meeting

• Contact a recruiter from the branch you're interested in

• Discuss eligibility, benefits, career paths, and commitments

• Be honest—recruiters can help you understand your options and guide you through the process
   

3. Take the ASVAB Test

Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery

• A required test that assesses your strengths and identifies suitable military jobs

• Offered at many high schools or local MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station)

• Higher scores open the door to more specialized roles
   

4. Undergo a Medical Evaluation

MEPS Physical Examination

• Conducted at the MEPS center

• Includes medical history, vision, hearing, height/weight, and physical fitness check

• Be prepared to spend a full day or more at MEPS
   

5. Choose Your Military Job (MOS/Rating/AFSC)

Match Your Skills with Needs

• Based on your ASVAB scores and physical qualifications

• Discuss with your recruiter which jobs are available and fit your interests

• Some jobs offer enlistment bonuses or specialized training
   

6. Take the Oath of Enlistment

Make it Official

• If you pass the MEPS evaluation and choose a job, you’ll take the Oath of Enlistment

• You’ll either go into the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) or ship out directly, depending on your situation
   

7. Prepare for Basic Training (Boot Camp)

Get Ready Mentally and Physically

• Stay in shape, follow instructions from your recruiter, and prepare for military discipline

• Learn the basics: military time, rank structure, general orders, and branch values
   

8. Ship Out to Basic Training

Your Journey Begins

• You'll be sent to a training location based on your branch

• Training lasts 6–13 weeks, depending on the branch

• You’ll develop discipline, physical strength, leadership skills, and core military knowledge
   

9. Attend AIT/Tech School (Job Training)

Specialized Training

• After basic training, you'll attend a school to learn your specific job (also called AIT, “A School,” or “Tech School”)

• Length and location vary depending on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or career field
   

10. Begin Your Military Career

Serve with Pride

• After job training, you’ll report to your first duty station

• Continue to grow, serve, and lead as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces
   

What to Expect Emotionally and Practically

• Discipline & Structure: Expect a highly structured environment where attention to detail matters

• Physical Demands: Basic Training is physically and mentally challenging; conditioning ahead of time is critical

• Camaraderie: You’ll build lifelong bonds with your fellow service members

• Growth & Opportunity: The military offers travel, education, career advancement, and leadership development
   

Still in High School? Here’s What You Can Do Now

• Maintain good grades and physical fitness

• Talk with your guidance counselor about military options

• Connect with JROTC if your school offers it

• Attend OCS – Fayetteville events to meet veterans, mentors, and fellow future enlistees
   

Our Community Salutes – Fayetteville proudly celebrates and supports students who choose to defend our nation. We honor your commitment and stand with you every step of the way.