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A PARENT'S GUIDE TO THE MARINE CORPS

Information about general enlistment in the Marine Corps, the Delayed Entry Program, and the Marine Corps Reserve.

General Enlistment

General enlistment is at least a four-year commitment, depending on your son or daughter's Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). Recruits are expected to have a high school diploma along with a satisfactory Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) score. New recruits must also meet minimum standards for fitness and strength. The standards are stringent because we know that better prepared recruits make for better Marines.

Delayed Entry Program

The Marine Corps also has a Delayed Entry Program, which allows your son or daughter to enlist up to one year before they graduate from high school. This time between enlisting and Recruit Training allows them to grow both physically and emotionally, and to prepare themselves for what's ahead.

Marine Corps Reserve

The Marine Corps Reserve is an eight-year commitment for those individuals who choose to defend their country by taking an alternate path to daily active duty service. Reserve Marines live and work day to day as civilians, remaining constantly prepared to serve if called to active duty.

Marine recruits

Frequently Asked Questionsred arrow

Question: 
Can my future Marine become an officer later if he or she wishes to do so?
Answer: 
The Marine Corps has several programs to afford Marines the opportunity to become officers. Your recruiter has all the up-to-date information on all officer programs.