Introduction to Joining the USMC
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) is one of the most prestigious and elite branches of the US military. It is known for its bravery, sacrifice, and esprit de corps. If you are considering joining the USMC, there are several paths you can take. In this article, we will explore 7 ways to join the USMC and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Path 1: Enlisted Recruiting
The most common way to join the USMC is through enlisted recruiting. To join as an enlisted Marine, you must be between the ages of 17 and 28, be a US citizen, and have a high school diploma. You will also need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test and score well in the areas related to your desired Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You can contact a recruiter to learn more about the enlistment process and to find out which MOSs are available.
Path 2: Officer Candidate School (OCS)
If you have a bachelor’s degree and want to become an officer in the USMC, you can apply to Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS is a 10-week course that teaches leadership and military skills. To be eligible for OCS, you must be between the ages of 20 and 28, be a US citizen, and have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. You will also need to take the ASVAB test and score well in the areas related to your desired MOS.
Path 3: Platoon Leaders Class (PLC)
The Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) is a program for college students who want to become officers in the USMC. The PLC program allows you to attend OCS during your summer breaks and then commission as an officer after you graduate from college. To be eligible for the PLC program, you must be between the ages of 17 and 24, be a US citizen, and be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program.
Path 4: Naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NROTC)
The Naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NROTC) is a program that allows you to attend college and earn a commission as an officer in the USMC. The NROTC program is available at many colleges and universities and provides a scholarship to help pay for your education. To be eligible for the NROTC program, you must be between the ages of 17 and 23, be a US citizen, and be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program.
Path 5: United States Naval Academy
The United States Naval Academy is a four-year service academy that provides a free education and a commission as an officer in the USMC. To be eligible for the Naval Academy, you must be between the ages of 17 and 23, be a US citizen, and be nominated by a member of Congress. The Naval Academy is highly competitive, and only a small number of students are accepted each year.
Path 6: Lateral Move
If you are already serving in another branch of the US military, you can apply for a lateral move to the USMC. To be eligible for a lateral move, you must be between the ages of 17 and 28, be a US citizen, and have a minimum of 2 years of service in your current branch. You will also need to meet the USMC’s eligibility requirements and be qualified for a MOS in the USMC.
Path 7: Prior Service
If you have prior service in the US military, you can apply to join the USMC as a prior service Marine. To be eligible for prior service, you must be between the ages of 17 and 28, be a US citizen, and have an honorable discharge from your previous branch of service. You will also need to meet the USMC’s eligibility requirements and be qualified for a MOS in the USMC.
💡 Note: The eligibility requirements for joining the USMC can vary depending on the path you choose, so be sure to check with a recruiter or the USMC's website for the most up-to-date information.
Here is a table summarizing the 7 ways to join the USMC:
| Path | Age Range | Education Requirements | Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enlisted Recruiting | 17-28 | High school diploma | ASVAB test, US citizen |
| Officer Candidate School (OCS) | 20-28 | Bachelor’s degree | ASVAB test, US citizen |
| Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) | 17-24 | Enrolled in bachelor’s degree program | ASVAB test, US citizen |
| Naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NROTC) | 17-23 | Enrolled in bachelor’s degree program | ASVAB test, US citizen |
| United States Naval Academy | 17-23 | High school diploma, nomination by member of Congress | US citizen |
| Lateral Move | 17-28 | Minimum 2 years of service in current branch | US citizen, qualified for MOS in USMC |
| Prior Service | 17-28 | Honorable discharge from previous branch | US citizen, qualified for MOS in USMC |
In summary, joining the USMC requires careful consideration of your goals, education, and career aspirations. By understanding the 7 ways to join the USMC, you can make an informed decision about which path is right for you. Whether you choose to enlist, become an officer, or join through a special program, serving in the USMC can be a rewarding and challenging career that provides opportunities for personal and professional growth.
What are the basic requirements for joining the USMC?
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The basic requirements for joining the USMC include being a US citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 28, and having a high school diploma. You will also need to take the ASVAB test and score well in the areas related to your desired MOS.
How do I become an officer in the USMC?
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To become an officer in the USMC, you can apply to Officer Candidate School (OCS), the Platoon Leaders Class (PLC), or the Naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NROTC) program. You can also attend the United States Naval Academy.
Can I join the USMC if I have prior service in another branch?
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Yes, you can join the USMC if you have prior service in another branch. You will need to meet the USMC’s eligibility requirements and be qualified for a MOS in the USMC. You can apply for a lateral move or prior service.
