Do you need a high school diploma to join the Army?

To join the U.S. Army, a potential recruit must have either a high school diploma or a GED with 15 college credits. A potential recruit must also pass a physical exam and pass the height, weight and body fat standards. Recruits must be at least 17 years old to enlist in the Army.

The Army also offers a program to assist potential recruits who do not have a GED or a high school diploma to meet the requirements for enlistment. Eligibility requirements for the Army GED Plus Enlistment Program include a score of at least 50 on the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery test, a score of at least 46 on the Assessment of Individual Motivation test, and a letter verifying enrollment in a GED program that lists a start date and a completion date.