14 answers
gabriel
Student
Houtzdale, Pennsylvania
1
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Asked
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how can i join the millitary after collge?
military tips
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14 answers
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
331
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi, Gabriel - I commend you for considering military service after college. An advantage of doing it after college is the chance to become an officer - see first two links below for more information.
Each branch (army, navy, air force, and marines) has their own recruiters, and potentially their own rules. I have put links below to information about the army and air force.
Good luck!
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/joining-the-military-after-college
Become - https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/joining-military-after-college/
Join army - https://work.chron.com/join-army-after-college-15609.html
Join air force - https://www.airforce.com/how-to-join/join-the-air-force
Each branch (army, navy, air force, and marines) has their own recruiters, and potentially their own rules. I have put links below to information about the army and air force.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Taylor Fronk
Sales Support
13
Answers
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
Hi Gabriel,
Simple, quick research into what branch you would like will help immensely. There is typically a section where you can request more information, and the recruiters will reach out to you.
If you have a degree, you should negotiate a sign-on bonus, officer training, etc.
Simple, quick research into what branch you would like will help immensely. There is typically a section where you can request more information, and the recruiters will reach out to you.
If you have a degree, you should negotiate a sign-on bonus, officer training, etc.
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
458
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Fred’s Answer
There is a plethora of information out there. A quick google search would help you find more info.
Many high schools and colleges invite military recruiters onto campus. You can also talk to a recruiter at a local recruiting station.
If you are going to college first, you may want to consider ROTC. If you are accepted, the military will help pay for your college on the condition you then server for some number of years (I'm not exactly sure how long that would be).
Many high schools and colleges invite military recruiters onto campus. You can also talk to a recruiter at a local recruiting station.
If you are going to college first, you may want to consider ROTC. If you are accepted, the military will help pay for your college on the condition you then server for some number of years (I'm not exactly sure how long that would be).
Thanks for answering, Fred! Do you have any reputable sites you can recommend to Gabriel for tips on the military?
Sharyn Grose, Admin
goarmy.com
navy.com
airforce.com
marines.com
uscg.mil
Fred Rosenberger
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6130
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Gabriel,
Joining the Military after College: Benefits, Steps, and Expert Advice
Some students may consider joining the military as an alternative to higher education or something to be done before pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
However, this guide invites learners to explore the possibilities and benefits of joining the military after graduating from college. In this comprehensive section, we will discuss reasons for delaying military service, accelerated officer positions, loan repayment programs, graduate education voucher programs, and developing more life experience and education.
Benefits of Joining the Military After College Graduation
There are several compelling reasons for students to join the military after earning their degree. These benefits include:
Accelerated Officer Positions: Each military branch allows students with four-year degrees to bypass general enlistment and move directly into officer training. This not only saves time spent working up the ranks but also enables individuals to take on leadership roles and earn higher salaries.
College Loan Repayment Program (CLRP): Qualified individuals who have student loans from attending college can apply for this repayment program when they join the military. While there is a maximum amount set by Congress ($65,000), branches set their own maximums (Army and Navy offer maximum repayment). The Coast Guard has a similar student loan repayment program for officers known as the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI).
Health Professionals Loan Repayment Program: Designed specifically for individuals in the military with health profession-related degrees, this program repays up to $40,000 annually – minus 25% taxes – for those who plan to follow a critically needed career during wartime by the Secretary of Defense.
Graduate Education Voucher Program: Eligible Navy officers can receive up to $40,000 towards a graduate degree provided they plan to complete program requirements when they are off-duty and demonstrate leadership potential and pursue a degree relevant to Navy goals.
Navy Postgraduate Dental School: Members of the Navy with a passion for dental health can join the Dental Corps and receive their education free of charge upon graduation if they commit to serving in the military for a certain number of years.
Funded Legal Education Program: Individuals hoping to become a member of the Army Jag Corps can apply to this highly competitive program which selects 25 active duty lieutenants or captains each year to receive a J.D. degree that is paid for by the government.
Developing More Life Experience & Education: Some Americans elect to join the military directly after college and feel they made the best decision for themselves; however, others may benefit from gaining knowledge and practical skills in an academic setting before serving their country in uniformed services.
How to Join the Military after College
After deciding that joining the military after college offers promising opportunities, students often have questions about logistics involved in such a plan:
General Requirements: Applicants must meet age requirements (Air Force: 18-39; Army: 19-32), hold at least a bachelor’s degree, demonstrate U.S Citizenship at application submission time, and pass stringent qualification checks based on leadership potential, morality standards, and academic strengths depending on specific branches’ requirements (some may require applicants to take qualifying exams).
Basic Training: Depending on which branch you choose (Air Force: Basic Military Training; Army:
Basic Combat Training; Navy: Boot camp), recruits undergo rigorous training focusing on mental and physical endurance as well as various skills related to field exercises, marksmanship, rappelling, combat survival/navigation techniques, weapon training/evaluations/exams/graduation ceremonies/career assignments/fire safety procedures/battlestations preparation/military traditions drilling/personal combat skills development/swimming proficiency tests etc.).
This phase typically lasts between 7-12 weeks depending on your chosen branch of service).
Officer Training: Officer candidates attend Officer Training Schools lasting between 9-13 weeks where they build discipline, leadership skills while developing physical stamina through various phases focusing on management skills (military history instruction), combat competencies development (cross-cultural understanding), teamwork building exercises (commanding incoming enlisting classes), evaluations assessments etc.).
Candidates then transition into their respective branches through mentorship programs or further specialized training courses based on their chosen career paths within each branch of service).
Note that different branches may vary slightly in terms of officer commission requirements regarding bachelor’s degrees or advanced degrees; applicants should consult individual branch websites or contact recruiters directly for specific details regarding these prerequisites).
God Bless You,
JC.
Joining the Military after College: Benefits, Steps, and Expert Advice
Some students may consider joining the military as an alternative to higher education or something to be done before pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
However, this guide invites learners to explore the possibilities and benefits of joining the military after graduating from college. In this comprehensive section, we will discuss reasons for delaying military service, accelerated officer positions, loan repayment programs, graduate education voucher programs, and developing more life experience and education.
Benefits of Joining the Military After College Graduation
There are several compelling reasons for students to join the military after earning their degree. These benefits include:
Accelerated Officer Positions: Each military branch allows students with four-year degrees to bypass general enlistment and move directly into officer training. This not only saves time spent working up the ranks but also enables individuals to take on leadership roles and earn higher salaries.
College Loan Repayment Program (CLRP): Qualified individuals who have student loans from attending college can apply for this repayment program when they join the military. While there is a maximum amount set by Congress ($65,000), branches set their own maximums (Army and Navy offer maximum repayment). The Coast Guard has a similar student loan repayment program for officers known as the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI).
Health Professionals Loan Repayment Program: Designed specifically for individuals in the military with health profession-related degrees, this program repays up to $40,000 annually – minus 25% taxes – for those who plan to follow a critically needed career during wartime by the Secretary of Defense.
Graduate Education Voucher Program: Eligible Navy officers can receive up to $40,000 towards a graduate degree provided they plan to complete program requirements when they are off-duty and demonstrate leadership potential and pursue a degree relevant to Navy goals.
Navy Postgraduate Dental School: Members of the Navy with a passion for dental health can join the Dental Corps and receive their education free of charge upon graduation if they commit to serving in the military for a certain number of years.
Funded Legal Education Program: Individuals hoping to become a member of the Army Jag Corps can apply to this highly competitive program which selects 25 active duty lieutenants or captains each year to receive a J.D. degree that is paid for by the government.
Developing More Life Experience & Education: Some Americans elect to join the military directly after college and feel they made the best decision for themselves; however, others may benefit from gaining knowledge and practical skills in an academic setting before serving their country in uniformed services.
How to Join the Military after College
After deciding that joining the military after college offers promising opportunities, students often have questions about logistics involved in such a plan:
General Requirements: Applicants must meet age requirements (Air Force: 18-39; Army: 19-32), hold at least a bachelor’s degree, demonstrate U.S Citizenship at application submission time, and pass stringent qualification checks based on leadership potential, morality standards, and academic strengths depending on specific branches’ requirements (some may require applicants to take qualifying exams).
Basic Training: Depending on which branch you choose (Air Force: Basic Military Training; Army:
Basic Combat Training; Navy: Boot camp), recruits undergo rigorous training focusing on mental and physical endurance as well as various skills related to field exercises, marksmanship, rappelling, combat survival/navigation techniques, weapon training/evaluations/exams/graduation ceremonies/career assignments/fire safety procedures/battlestations preparation/military traditions drilling/personal combat skills development/swimming proficiency tests etc.).
This phase typically lasts between 7-12 weeks depending on your chosen branch of service).
Officer Training: Officer candidates attend Officer Training Schools lasting between 9-13 weeks where they build discipline, leadership skills while developing physical stamina through various phases focusing on management skills (military history instruction), combat competencies development (cross-cultural understanding), teamwork building exercises (commanding incoming enlisting classes), evaluations assessments etc.).
Candidates then transition into their respective branches through mentorship programs or further specialized training courses based on their chosen career paths within each branch of service).
Note that different branches may vary slightly in terms of officer commission requirements regarding bachelor’s degrees or advanced degrees; applicants should consult individual branch websites or contact recruiters directly for specific details regarding these prerequisites).
God Bless You,
JC.
John Luna
Sr. Identity and Security Engineer
5
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
John’s Answer
Don't wait! I'm not advising you to sign up to a branch immediately. I would highly recommend you joining ROTC if your college has it.
Cesar Arroyo
Navy Logistics Analyst
5
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Cesar’s Answer
What are your career goals? Do you have a job lined up after graduation? You can either join the military full-time (Active Duty) or part-time (Reserve). There are pros and cons to both but it all depends on your situation and what you look to get out of military service.
Happy to follow up on this!
Happy to follow up on this!
Gabriel Jones
Cybersecurity
6
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Gabriel’s Answer
I suggest exploring and reaching out to nearby recruitment centers to inquire about officer programs available across different military branches, especially since you will have a college degree.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
725
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Gabriel, as a proud Gulf War veteran who enlisted in the Army just six weeks post-college, I can confidently share that embarking on a military career after college can be an enriching and stimulating experience. It presents a wealth of opportunities for both personal and professional development. To set sail on this exciting voyage, it's vital to familiarize yourself with the various commissioning programs and the steps involved in the application process.
One of the main gateways for college graduates into the military is through the Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS) programs. These rigorous training programs, which can span several weeks to months, offer comprehensive leadership education, military tactics, and officer responsibilities. After successfully completing the program, you'll be commissioned as an officer in your chosen branch of service, be it the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps.
If you're still in college, you might want to consider the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program. Available at numerous universities, ROTC programs offer a unique blend of academic and military training. Upon graduation, you'll receive a commission as a second lieutenant or ensign, depending on the branch. This path provides an excellent opportunity to gain valuable leadership experience and military knowledge while achieving your academic goals.
You also have the option to apply for direct commissioning programs, designed specifically for individuals with certain skills or professional backgrounds. For example, the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) offer opportunities for those pursuing medical or healthcare careers to serve as commissioned officers in the military's medical corps.
Remember, Gabriel, no matter which commissioning path you choose, the application process usually involves satisfying specific academic, physical, and moral standards. Expect to undergo a comprehensive background check, medical examination, and possibly take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) or other relevant tests. You'll also need to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.
Bear in mind that the application process can be competitive, and the timeline may differ depending on the branch and program. Hence, it's wise to start the process early and seek advice from military recruiters or career counselors to ensure you fulfill all necessary requirements and deadlines.
Gabriel, I can personally attest that joining the military after college opens up a world of opportunities. You'll have the privilege of serving your country, honing invaluable leadership skills, and potentially exploring a wide array of career paths within the armed forces. With dedication, persistence, and a commitment to excellence, you can embark on a rewarding and satisfying military career.
One of the main gateways for college graduates into the military is through the Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS) programs. These rigorous training programs, which can span several weeks to months, offer comprehensive leadership education, military tactics, and officer responsibilities. After successfully completing the program, you'll be commissioned as an officer in your chosen branch of service, be it the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps.
If you're still in college, you might want to consider the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program. Available at numerous universities, ROTC programs offer a unique blend of academic and military training. Upon graduation, you'll receive a commission as a second lieutenant or ensign, depending on the branch. This path provides an excellent opportunity to gain valuable leadership experience and military knowledge while achieving your academic goals.
You also have the option to apply for direct commissioning programs, designed specifically for individuals with certain skills or professional backgrounds. For example, the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) offer opportunities for those pursuing medical or healthcare careers to serve as commissioned officers in the military's medical corps.
Remember, Gabriel, no matter which commissioning path you choose, the application process usually involves satisfying specific academic, physical, and moral standards. Expect to undergo a comprehensive background check, medical examination, and possibly take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) or other relevant tests. You'll also need to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.
Bear in mind that the application process can be competitive, and the timeline may differ depending on the branch and program. Hence, it's wise to start the process early and seek advice from military recruiters or career counselors to ensure you fulfill all necessary requirements and deadlines.
Gabriel, I can personally attest that joining the military after college opens up a world of opportunities. You'll have the privilege of serving your country, honing invaluable leadership skills, and potentially exploring a wide array of career paths within the armed forces. With dedication, persistence, and a commitment to excellence, you can embark on a rewarding and satisfying military career.
Debra Patsky
Sales Effectiveness
14
Answers
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Updated
Debra’s Answer
You can join ROTC while in school. Or you can go to a local recruitment center in your town to join one of the services. It is an excellent way to get college paid for if you are looking to go to grad school. Also opportunity to gain valuable work experience. I am a veteran of the US Air Force.
Amber Brandenburg
Solution Analyst
2
Answers
Louisville, Kentucky
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Joining the military after college is a path many individuals take. This can provide leadership opportunities and potentially lead to a career as a military officer. Here are some steps you can take to join the military after college:
1. Research Your Options
There are several branches of the military you can consider: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, and the Reserve and National Guard versions of these services. Research the roles, responsibilities, and commitments associated with each branch to understand which is the best fit for you.
2. Check the Eligibility Requirements
Each branch of the military has its own set of requirements. These typically include age limits, physical fitness standards, education levels (a bachelor's degree is usually required for officer programs), and moral character (typically evaluated through background checks and interviews). Make sure you meet these requirements before proceeding.
3. Contact a Recruiter
Once you've decided on a branch, you'll need to contact a recruiter for that service. They can provide more specific information about what you can expect from life in the military, help you understand the enlistment process, and guide you through the necessary paperwork.
4. Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS)
As a college graduate, you can attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS) depending on the branch of service. These programs are designed to train, assess, and evaluate potential military officers. They usually last a few months and involve rigorous physical and academic training.
5. Passing the Medical and Fitness Tests
You'll need to pass a thorough medical examination to ensure you're physically capable of serving in the military. There is also a physical fitness test that assesses your endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
6. Sign the Contract and Take the Oath
Once you've passed all the tests and completed training, you'll sign a contract outlining your commitment to the military. This includes the length of service, your role, and other obligations. You'll then take the oath of enlistment, officially making you a member of the U.S. military.
Remember that joining the military is a significant commitment and should not be taken lightly. It's essential to do thorough research, speak with professionals, and consider your options before making a decision.
1. Research Your Options
There are several branches of the military you can consider: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, and the Reserve and National Guard versions of these services. Research the roles, responsibilities, and commitments associated with each branch to understand which is the best fit for you.
2. Check the Eligibility Requirements
Each branch of the military has its own set of requirements. These typically include age limits, physical fitness standards, education levels (a bachelor's degree is usually required for officer programs), and moral character (typically evaluated through background checks and interviews). Make sure you meet these requirements before proceeding.
3. Contact a Recruiter
Once you've decided on a branch, you'll need to contact a recruiter for that service. They can provide more specific information about what you can expect from life in the military, help you understand the enlistment process, and guide you through the necessary paperwork.
4. Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS)
As a college graduate, you can attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) or Officer Training School (OTS) depending on the branch of service. These programs are designed to train, assess, and evaluate potential military officers. They usually last a few months and involve rigorous physical and academic training.
5. Passing the Medical and Fitness Tests
You'll need to pass a thorough medical examination to ensure you're physically capable of serving in the military. There is also a physical fitness test that assesses your endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
6. Sign the Contract and Take the Oath
Once you've passed all the tests and completed training, you'll sign a contract outlining your commitment to the military. This includes the length of service, your role, and other obligations. You'll then take the oath of enlistment, officially making you a member of the U.S. military.
Remember that joining the military is a significant commitment and should not be taken lightly. It's essential to do thorough research, speak with professionals, and consider your options before making a decision.
Phil Cala
Advisory Consultant
9
Answers
Lake Ridge, Virginia
Updated
Phil’s Answer
Hi Gabriel,
There are a couple of paths/options available for you if you're interested in military service following graduation from college. They all involve speaking with a recruiter at your local recruitment center, a process you can typically start by filling out an online questionnaire. The below advice is from my own experience as a now-retired Army officer.
1. Enlisted Ranks. There was previously a misguided notion that you *had* to be an officer if you had a college degree. This is not true; during my own military career, I had many Soldiers that had undergraduate or graduate degrees--sometimes both.
2. Officer Candidate School: You would enlist and go through basic training, and immediately following basic training, you would then go to Officer Candidate School--which trains enlisted Soldiers to become officers while serving on active duty.
3. Direct Commission: Depending on your degree, there may be options for you to directly commission as an officer without going through ROTC or without having to first go through basic training. Typically, this option has been reserved and used for those with advanced degrees (e.g., law or medical), but there are now options in the Army to receive a direct commission into the Army Cyber Corps (https://www.arcyber.army.mil/Resources/Fact-Sheets/Article/2060387/army-cyber-direct-commissioning-program/).
There are a couple of paths/options available for you if you're interested in military service following graduation from college. They all involve speaking with a recruiter at your local recruitment center, a process you can typically start by filling out an online questionnaire. The below advice is from my own experience as a now-retired Army officer.
1. Enlisted Ranks. There was previously a misguided notion that you *had* to be an officer if you had a college degree. This is not true; during my own military career, I had many Soldiers that had undergraduate or graduate degrees--sometimes both.
2. Officer Candidate School: You would enlist and go through basic training, and immediately following basic training, you would then go to Officer Candidate School--which trains enlisted Soldiers to become officers while serving on active duty.
3. Direct Commission: Depending on your degree, there may be options for you to directly commission as an officer without going through ROTC or without having to first go through basic training. Typically, this option has been reserved and used for those with advanced degrees (e.g., law or medical), but there are now options in the Army to receive a direct commission into the Army Cyber Corps (https://www.arcyber.army.mil/Resources/Fact-Sheets/Article/2060387/army-cyber-direct-commissioning-program/).
Mahir Miah
Junior Software Developer
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Mahir’s Answer
Direct websites for the military, college recruitment fairs and reaching out to recruiters via linkedin
Rabecca McDonald
School counselor
1
Answer
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Rabecca’s Answer
Go to a recruiting office in your area.
This is your first step. The recruiting Office has all the tools needed to see what you qualify for. They will conduct the ASVAB for you, check your ACFT scores, height and weight, tell you about career paths, and talk about bonuses (if they are available).
Most recruiters are not great salesmen/women and just like to shoot you straight on what to expect and what you need to do. Ask them what you need to know.
John Fellows
Patricia Memmolo
Major Account Spport
2
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Hi Gabrial,
Young kids can join programs in the community, I Put my 3 boys in a Program in Southern California called The Young Marines and In New Hampshire, and Portland OR great programs helps build your file for the military, ROTC is offered in High Scool, great program, alot of schools offer, in College there are Military programs as well . Interview with all Air Force, Navy , Army , Marines do your homework on all on what they offer , have a plan a,b,c,d on what intrest you for your future in Military , ask lots of questions . I wish you lots of luck on your path .
Young kids can join programs in the community, I Put my 3 boys in a Program in Southern California called The Young Marines and In New Hampshire, and Portland OR great programs helps build your file for the military, ROTC is offered in High Scool, great program, alot of schools offer, in College there are Military programs as well . Interview with all Air Force, Navy , Army , Marines do your homework on all on what they offer , have a plan a,b,c,d on what intrest you for your future in Military , ask lots of questions . I wish you lots of luck on your path .