Military
Serving in the military can be a rewarding path after high school—whether you’re looking for training, education funding, a way to serve, or a strong start to your career. ETHS supports all students in exploring their post-secondary options, including military service.
The military offers a range of benefits and opportunities, including:
- Job training and certifications in high-demand fields
- Educational funding for college or technical programs
- Valuable leadership and interpersonal skills that translate into future employment
- Serve your country while developing character and discipline
- Stable career path
Students can use SchooLinks to explore military careers, learn more about U.S. Military Academies, and discover ROTC programs available on college campuses.
Military Pathways
Enlistment Requirements
Each branch of the military sets its own specific enlistment requirements, but there are some basic qualifications that apply across all branches. These may include:
| Citizenship | Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident with a valid Permanent Resident Card or Green Card. |
| Age | Be age 17 with parental consent, or age 18 or older without consent. Each service branch has a different enlistment age limit. |
| Education | Have a high school diploma or GED. |
| Testing | Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) multiple-choice test series, which is used to determine if you have the mental aptitude to enlist, and which branches and jobs you can pursue. ASVAB is required to enlist in all five military branches. |
| Health and Fitness | Pass a physical exam and meet weight limits. Each service has different fitness standards. |
ASVAB — Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery
The ASVAB is a multiple-choice test used by the U.S. military to assess your skills and abilities in various areas such as math, reading comprehension, science, and technical knowledge. Taking the ASVAB helps identify your strengths and matches you with military jobs that fit your skills and interests. At ETHS, students have the opportunity to take the ASVAB as part of their career planning process. Learn more at www.officialasvab.com.
The ASVAB test is offered once a year at ETHS. Students in Grades 10, 11, and 12 who are interested in taking the ASVAB test at ETHS should contact College & Career Services.
ROTC Programs
ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) is a college program that prepares students to become officers in the military while completing their college degrees. As part of ROTC, students take military science classes alongside their normal college coursework, develop leadership skills, and undergo physical training.
ROTC programs are branch-specific. Each prepares future officers for service in a particular branch of the military:
- Army ROTC: Prepares future Army officers.
- Navy ROTC: Prepares future Navy and Marine Corps officers.
- Air Force ROTC: Prepares future Air Force and Space Force officers.
Some schools offer multiple ROTC programs on their campuses. ROTC offers financial assistance, scholarships, and other benefits in exchange for a service commitment after graduation. It’s a path for those who want to pursue higher education while also preparing to serve their country.
Resources and Support
ETHS College & Career Services can help you:
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Gather information about service options
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Connect with military recruiters
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Prepare for and take the ASVAB test
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Explore education funding, incentives, and career training programs
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Develop a realistic plan for your future, whether you pursue a military career, further education, or employment afterwards
Contact Information
College & Career Services
W220
Sarah Dreller
College & Career Support Specialist
Phone: (847)424-7160
Email: drellers@eths202.org
