Preparation and determination are essential in becoming a Marine.
If you choose to join the Marine Corps, it's important to prepare yourself emotionally, mentally and physically for that life-changing decision. It will not be easy, but with preparation and determination, you can become a member of "the few, the proud, the Marines."
Instructions
1. Study hard. If you are still in high school, good grades will improve your chances of getting into the Corps. If you did not finish high school, you must go back and graduate or earn a General Education Diploma (GED). All of the military services require recruits to have a diploma or GED. If you are already in college or have a college degree, you may be recruited for Officer Candidate School.
2. Join the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) if it is offered at your high school or college. At the high school level, the Marine Corps Junior ROTC program provides a view of the military way of life, as well as scholarship opportunities and early advances in rank. College students can join the Marine Option Navy ROTC program, which can provide subsidized scholarships, stipends for textbooks, assistance with fees, a living allowance and other financial assistance to qualified students.
3. Prepare yourself mentally. Following orders is essential to success in all branches of the military. Begin at home by following instructions the first time they are given to you. For example, if your parents tell you to take out the trash, get up and do it immediately. If your coach tells you to run a mile, do not stop to complain -- just do it.
4. Get a physical examination and consult with your doctor regarding a conditioning routine. Marine Corps boot camp is physically demanding. The minimum scores for the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) for men are: Run three miles in 28 minutes, do 50 crunches in two minutes and do three pull-ups with no time limit. The minimum requirements for women are: Run three miles in 31 minutes, do 50 crunches in two minutes and execute a flexed-arm hang for 15 seconds. If a recruit fails any minimum standard during the PFT, he fails the entire test. In addition, meeting the minimum standards in all categories does not ensure a passing score; a Marine must exceed the minimum in at least one category in order to pass the PFT.
5. Stay out of trouble with the law. If you have a criminal record, you must disclose and discuss it with the recruiter. Each branch of service has different standards of what constitutes unacceptable legal issues. A felony often disqualifies a recruit; however, there is a waiver process. In general, you must write a letter requesting a waiver and explain the charges. You must also provide character reference letters from responsible members of the community. Be prepared to discuss your legal issues during your interview at the Military Entrance Processing Station. Waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis. Your recruiter can explain the specific details to you.
6. Talk to a recruiter. The recruiter will explain the entire process of joining the Corps, including early enlistment programs, benefits, pay, medical or legal waivers, education requirements and job opportunities. The recruiter will also administer the Armed Forces Qualification Test. This test will help place you in a job classification suited to your abilities. The Marine Corps minimum score for a high school graduate is a 32, and the minimum score for a GED holder is 50. Achieving a minimum score does not guarantee that the Corps will accept you as a recruit.
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