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The Army National Guard has specific physical, academic, and legal qualifications that you must pass to join. Below is a list of the requirements you will be required to meet in order to join the National Guard.
Meet citizenship requirements
To join the Army National Guard, you must have a high school diploma or GED. If you do not meet this requirement, we can help; just visit the National Guard Youth Challenge Program's web site. †Persons who were born in the 50 United States including the commonwealths, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia, are eligible for enlistment. Persons born abroad on a military installation, or born abroad of U.S. parents who were citizens at the time are also eligible for enlistment. Persons considered to be aliens who have been lawfully and permanently admitted to the United States and requested permanent residence may enlist BUT not for any Military Occupational Specialty requiring a security clearance. These applicants will incur a Military Service Obligation (MSO), and they should apply for citizenship within four years after enlistment. Those who do not apply for citizenship by the end of their MSO will not be eligible for extension or reenlistment and will be discharged upon completion of their MSO. Aliens who have been admitted on a temporary basis are not eligible for enlistment. Nationals of the United States, such as the American Samoa, are eligible for enlistment.
*Not all the enlistment criteria are shown here; contact your recruiter for exact details.
Success in any branch of the Military depends on a good education, and a high school diploma is most desirable. Candidates with a GED can enlist, but some services may limit opportunities. It is very difficult to be considered a serious candidate without either a high school diploma or accepted alternative credential. In any case, staying in school is important for entering the Military.
As part of the entrance process for any service, prior to Boot Camp, you will receive a physical exam. During that exam you will be asked about your overall health.
A criminal record may disqualify you from military service. If you have a criminal record you need to talk to a recruiter in order to evaluate your particular situation.