The U.S. military is divided into 5 main categories:
- Marine Corps;
- Air Force;
- Navy;
- Coastal Coast Guard;
- US Army.
Military service in the United States is optional – everything is on a contract basis. The contract is signed for a period of 2 to 6 years. The duration of the contract depends on the type of troops, preferences of the candidate and other technical details.
Only a citizen or a resident of a country can enlist in the US Army. A resident is a person who has received a residence permit and has a green card.
Key Selection Criteria for US Service
- Age: 17+
- US Citizenship or Green Card
- No criminal record (optional)
- Excellent physical fitness
- IQ level: average / above average
- Having secondary education
- No problems with underweight / overweight
In order to start the enrollment process, undergo medical examinations and screening tests the candidate must be located in the USA. For those who have not yet reached the age of 18, you will need a special document (parental consent). It is filled in according to the established form. Since the call is not mandatory, but contractual, the selection includes a special test to determine intellectual abilities.
Both men and women can serve in the US Army. However, women are not allowed to serve in special forces and on submarines.
Passing the Recruit Knowledge Test
Taking the test is an important part of enlisting in the army. If the applicant fails the test, then he will not be enrolled. But many people say that it is quite easy to get a passing grade.
The recruit must pass the Armed Forces Classification Test (AFCT). It includes the following questions:
- knowledge of spoken English;
- knowledge of mathematics;
- ability to understand written English;
- test of the applicant’s vocabulary.
Another test for admission is Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This test is slightly larger than the previous one. There will also be questions from electronics and mechanics.
After passing the tests, you will need to undergo a medical examination. The next step is to choose a specialization. It is important to note that not all types of specializations are available to US residents, unlike citizens. There are about 150 such species in total.
After that, the recruit gets acquainted with the specific terms of the contract and signs it.
