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test, get a security clearance, or do anything else before you can get the job or options you want. Remember, there are slightly different enlistment requirements for each branch. How- ever, minimum entrance age requirements for the U.S. armed forces are a standard 17 years of age with parental consent or 18 years of age without parental consent. Physical requirements for each branch of the service also vary and can differ even within a branch for various subcategories of troops. In general, enlistees should be in good physical condition, of appropriate weight, and able to pass a standard physical screening prior to entry. If you report to basic training too out of shape to train with the others, you may be placed in a separate remedial physical fitness program. Spare yourself the embarrassment and make sure you’re in decent shape beforehand. You have a better chance of getting your military job of choice if you have a high school diploma. Candidates with a credential of general educational development (GED) can enlist, but some services may limit their opportunities. Without a high school diploma or equivalent, you’re more than likely bound for the infantry or a similarly unskilled position. After you enlist, you will be sent for some form of “basic training,” as the U.S. Army calls it. Terminology for all training tends to vary from branch to branch. Of course, enlistees have their own choice words for it. Basic training is a rough program of physical and mental train- ing required to join the military. It is carried out at several different bases around the United States. Basic training can last anywhere from nine weeks to more than one year, depending on the career a person chooses on enlistment. Despite its reputation for difficulty, about 90 percent of recruits successfully complete basic training. What You Need to Qualify for the Branches of the Armed Services To join the . . . You must: Air Force Be between the ages of 17 and 27.* Have no more than two dependents. Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test (ASVAB). (Minimum Armed Forces Qualification Test Score: 50) Army Be between the ages of 17 and 34.* Have no more than two dependents. Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test. (Minimum Armed Forces Qualification Test Score: 31) Coast Guard Be between the ages of 17 and 39.* Have no more than two dependents. Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test. (Minimum Armed Forces Qualification Test Score: 45) Have a willingness to serve on or around the water. Introduction  • 9