Marine Enlistment Requirements | Joining The Marine Corps in 2022!

There are many factors to consider when joining the Marine Corps. Marine Enlistment Requirements are one of them. Becoming a United States Marine requires a level of discipline (will be instilled in boot camp), moral, physical and mental strength and a strong desire to succeed. If this sounds like a challenge you were born for, then you must first pass an aptitude test, pass the Initial Strength Test, and meet the Marine Corps Enlistment Requirements.

Basic Marine Enlistment Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen or have your “green card”.
• Be physically and mentally fit.
• Be between the ages of 17-29. If you’re 17, you’ll need a parent consent form.
• High school diploma
• Take and pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
• Pass a medical exam at a Military Entrance Processing Station.
• Other factors may be considered, including criminal history and tattoos.

In some cases, a ‘Waiver’ may be given if an individual does not meet one or two Marine Enlistment Requirements when joining. Although, this is rare so it is advised that you do your best to meet the basic Marine Corps Enlistment Requirements.

CITIZENSHIP

You must be a United States Citizen or a permanent resident alien. If you were not born in the United States you will be required to prove your status.

HEIGHT AND WEIGHT STANDARDS

It is required of all Marines to maintain their height and weight within certain standards. Recruits must be within the range to begin training.

Depending on your current sit within the weight requirements to join the Marine Corps, you may have to lose weight or even gain weight in some cases.

Male Marine Height and Weight Standards

Male Marines must be a minimum of 4’8″ tall (56″). At that height, they must weigh between 85 and 122 lbs.

The maximum height listed is 6’10” (86″). Marines this tall must weight between 182 and 263 lbs.

Female Marine Height and Weight Standards

Female Marines must also be a minimum of 4’8″ tall (56″). At that height, they must weigh between 85 and 115 lbs.

The maximum height for women is 6’10” and they must weigh between 182 and 248 lbs.

AGE

Applicants must be between the ages of 17 and 28 to enlist. Individuals under the age of 18 will require parental consent to enlist. If you are over 28 years of age a waiver may be granted, but this is not guaranteed. Speak to a recruiter if this applies to you.

LAW

You must pass a criminal background check and have no felony convictions. Depending on your desired MOS, or job title, there may be stricter regulations due to security clearance.

HEALTH

Any diseases or conditions that are considered life-threatening or contagious will most likely disqualify you from joining. Again, it is best to speak with a recruiter if you believe you have a condition or disease that may disqualify you.

There should be no surprise that you must be in good physical condition before joining. A physical must be passed before shipping off to basic training.

EDUCATION

The Marine Corps does allow individuals who possess a GED the ability to join but on a very limited basis. The Commandant of the Marine Corps mandates that 95% of Marines be tier 1 meaning they possess a High School Diploma.

ASVAB

You must score a 32 minimum on the ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. Some jobs in the Marine Corp may require a higher score.

CONCLUSION

It is important to note that these initial requirements to join the Marine Corps are not the end all be all. There may be special waivers available for certain things. If you have any questions about your eligibility to join, contact a recruiter.

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Thanks for stopping by!

Semper Fidelis,

Tony 
Sergeant (Marine Corps Veteran)
For The Corps

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