Do you need a GED to join the Army if you didn't graduate from high school? The answer depends on your education credential and whether you meet the Army's current enlistment requirements. While many people qualify with a traditional high school diploma, the Army also accepts GED holders under current policies. This article explains who needs a GED, how it compares with a diploma for enlistment, and the steps to join the Army with a GED.
Do you need a GED to join the Army?
No. You do not need a GED to join the Army if you already have a high school diploma. However, candidates who did not graduate from high school generally need a GED or another accepted high school equivalency credential to qualify for Army enlistment. If you're unfamiliar with this credential, it's helpful to understand what a GED is before exploring the Army's education requirements.
Can you join the Army with a GED?
Yes. Having a GED does not prevent you from joining the Army, provided you meet the current enlistment requirements. While the Army accepts GED holders, recruiting policies and available opportunities may differ from those for candidates with a traditional high school diploma.Recruiting policies can change over time, so those who wish to enlist with a GED should confirm the latest eligibility requirements with an Army recruiter before applying.
Army education requirements explained
Education is an important part of Army eligibility, but the required credential depends on the role you're pursuing. Here's how the education requirements differ for enlisted Soldiers and commissioned officers, along with the other qualifications applicants must meet.
Education requirements for enlisted Soldiers
For most enlisted Army positions, individuals must have either a traditional high school diploma or a GED. While the Army accepts both credentials, a high school diploma is generally the standard qualification, and GED holders may be subject to additional recruiting policies depending on current enlistment needs.
Education requirements for Army officers
Applicants who want to become commissioned officers typically need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. A GED alone does not qualify someone for an officer position, although it can serve as a pathway to earning a college degree before pursuing a commission.
Other requirements you must meet
Meeting the education requirement alone is not enough to join the Army; candidates must also:
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Meet the Army's education requirement with a high school diploma or GED.
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Pass the ASVAB, which helps determine eligibility for different Army career fields.
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Meet age requirements based on current enlistment policies.
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Complete the required medical examination and satisfy physical standards.
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Pass background screening, including any applicable moral or legal requirements.
Applicants seeking to become commissioned officers typically need a bachelor's degree rather than a high school diploma or GED alone.
High school diploma vs. GED for Army enlistment
Both a high school diploma and a GED are accepted for Army enlistment, but they are not always treated the same during the recruiting process.
|
Factor |
High school diploma |
GED |
|
Army education tier |
Classified as a Tier 1 education credential. |
Generally classified as a Tier 2 education credential. |
|
Enlistment qualification |
Standard qualification for enlistment. |
Accepted as an alternative credential for those who did not finish high school. |
|
Enlistment opportunities |
May provide broader enlistment opportunities. |
Recruiting opportunities may depend on current Army policies and applicant qualifications. |
Because Tier 1 individuals make up the majority of Army recruits, a high school diploma generally provides the most straightforward path to enlistment. GED holders can still join the Army, but they may face additional recruiting requirements depending on current enlistment policies.If you're deciding which credential to pursue, understanding the differences between a GED vs high school diploma can help you make a more informed education decision before beginning the enlistment process.
How to join the Army with a GED?
If you have a GED, you can still join the Army if you meet the current enlistment requirements. Although the overall process is similar to that of high school diploma graduates, recruiting policies for GED holders may vary based on current Army needs.
1. Earn your GED
Before applying to the Army, you'll need a valid GED credential if you did not graduate from high school. If you haven't earned one yet, you'll first need to sign up for the GED and complete all required subject tests.
2. Meet the Army's basic eligibility requirements
In addition to having a GED, you'll need to meet the Army's requirements for age, citizenship or legal residency, medical fitness, and background screening.
3. Complete the required entrance testing
All Army candidates must take the ASVAB, which helps determine enlistment eligibility and the Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) they may qualify for.
4. Speak with an Army recruiter
An Army recruiter can review your qualifications, explain the current enlistment requirements, and guide you through each step of the application process.
5. Complete processing and enlist
After completing the required medical evaluation and enlistment processing at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), you'll review available Army careers, complete your enlistment paperwork, and prepare for basic training.Note: Army recruiting policies for GED holders, including education requirements and enlistment procedures, may change over time. Always verify the latest information with an Army recruiter before applying.
FAQs
1. Can I join the Army without a GED?
Yes, if you already have a high school diploma. However, if you did not graduate from high school, you'll generally need a GED or another accepted high school equivalency credential to qualify for Army enlistment. In rare cases, exceptions or waivers may be available based on current recruiting needs.
2. Is it harder to join the Army with a GED?
It can be. While the Army accepts GED holders, individuals with a GED may face different recruiting policies than those with a traditional high school diploma. Depending on current enlistment standards, this could affect available opportunities or qualification requirements.
3. Can you become an Army officer with a GED?
Not with a GED alone. Commissioned officers generally need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in addition to meeting all other commissioning requirements. A GED can still be the first step if you plan to earn a college degree before pursuing an officer career.
4. Can you choose any Army job with a GED?
Not always. Your available Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) depend on several factors, including your ASVAB scores, medical qualifications, security clearance eligibility, and current Army recruiting needs. Having a GED alone does not automatically limit your options, but some opportunities may have additional requirements.
Final thoughts
So, do you need a GED to join the Army? Not if you already have a high school diploma. However, if you didn't finish high school, earning a GED is one of the most common ways to meet the Army's education requirement for enlistment. From there, you'll also need to satisfy the Army's standards for testing, medical fitness, and overall eligibility.If you're preparing to earn your GED before speaking with a recruiter, taking a GED practice test is a great way to assess your readiness, build confidence, and identify the subjects that need more review.