5 Ways Join Marines

Introduction to Joining the Marines

Joining the Marines is a significant decision that requires careful consideration, dedication, and a strong desire to serve one’s country. The United States Marine Corps is known for its elite group of warriors, and becoming a part of this prestigious organization can be a life-changing experience. If you’re interested in joining the Marines, there are several ways to do so, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. In this article, we’ll explore five ways to join the Marines and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Way 1: Enlistment

The most common way to join the Marines is through enlistment. This involves contacting a Marine recruiter, meeting the eligibility requirements, and enlisting for a specific job, known as a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). To enlist, you’ll need to be a U.S. citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 28, and meet certain physical and educational standards. You’ll also need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test and score well in the areas related to your desired MOS.

Way 2: Officer Candidate School (OCS)

Another way to join the Marines is through Officer Candidate School (OCS). This program is designed for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree and want to become a Marine officer. To attend OCS, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 20 and 28, and having a minimum GPA of 2.0. You’ll also need to pass a physical fitness test and undergo a background check.

Way 3: Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class (PLC)

The Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) is a program designed for college students who want to become Marine officers. This program allows students to attend Officer Candidate School during their summer breaks and commission as officers after graduation. To attend PLC, you’ll need to be a U.S. citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 28, and have a minimum GPA of 2.0. You’ll also need to pass a physical fitness test and undergo a background check.

Way 4: Marine Corps Cadet Program

The Marine Corps Cadet Program is a scholarship program that allows high school students to attend college and become Marine officers. This program provides full tuition and fees, as well as a monthly stipend, in exchange for a commitment to serve in the Marine Corps after graduation. To be eligible for the Cadet Program, you’ll need to be a U.S. citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 23, and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. You’ll also need to pass a physical fitness test and undergo a background check.

Way 5: Lateral Move

If you’re already serving in another branch of the military, you may be able to lateral move into the Marine Corps. This involves transferring your commission or enlistment to the Marine Corps and attending a transition course to learn the Marine Corps way of doing things. To lateral move into the Marine Corps, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 28, and having a minimum of two years of service in your current branch. You’ll also need to pass a physical fitness test and undergo a background check.

💡 Note: Before making a decision, it's essential to research and understand the requirements and benefits of each way to join the Marines.

In summary, there are several ways to join the Marines, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. Whether you’re interested in enlisting, attending Officer Candidate School, or lateral moving from another branch, it’s essential to carefully consider your options and make an informed decision. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a part of the elite group of warriors known as the United States Marine Corps.