United States Marines

The mission of the United States Marine Corps is to fight and win our Nation's battles - wherever they arise. Every Marine serves with purpose, driven by courage, discipline, and an unshakable commitment to protect and defend.
Marines are trained to adapt, overcome, and stand strong - together. Their greatest strength? The fighting spirit within.
Semper Fidelis, meaning "Always Faithful," is our promise to each other, our country, and every mission we take on.

Marines work together with one goal - protecting our country and making a real difference. It's more than a job -it's a purpose that connects every Marine. We face challenges as a team and grow through every experience.

What does it take to fight in the Marine Corps? These are physical, mental, and moral requirements that must be met before you enlist as a Marine or commission as a Marine Officer.

Eligibility Requirements
To even consider an endeavor of this magnitude is admirable, but just as the Marine Corps may not be right for everyone—not just anyone can be a Marine. To enlist as a Marine, you must obtain your high school diploma and be a legal U.S. resident between 17 and 28. To commission as a Marine Officer, you must be a United States citizen between 20 and 28 and have obtained both a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree. Both enlisted and officer candidates must pass a criminal background check and have no felony convictions. New recruits must pass The Initial Strength Test, or IST, to demonstrate their physical fitness. The IST consists of pull-ups or push-ups, plank pose, and a 1.5-mile timed run.

Physical Requirements
1. To even begin recruit training, aspiring Marines must pass the Initial Strength Test (IST).
2. The Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test, or PFT, evaluates stamina and physical conditioning. It includes 3 parts: pull-ups or push-ups, plank pose, and a 3-mile timed run.
3. The Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test, or CFT, measures functional fitness and simulates the demands of battle in full combat utility uniforms.

Education and Occupations
There are hundreds of military occupational specialties (the Marine Corps’ term for jobs) and all are critical to winning for our future. Every Marine receives specialized training to become proficient in their assigned field. But our purpose isn’t defined by a job description because commitment to our cause can’t be taught. Marines are driven by a call to serve and fueled by their belief that a future for all of us will be won in our fight.

After completing Marine Corps Recruit Training, Marines can become an expert in any number of 300+ MOSs, creating a diverse and talented group of modern fighters for our Nation.

MOS training comes in many forms, including:
• Formal schools that offer college credit and graduation certificate opportunities
• On-the-job training, receiving hands-on experience from established professionals in those fields
• Advanced formal training to become an occupational field expert and learn skills for supervisory, leadership, and management roles.

With the right mindset and determination, anything is possible. If you're looking for a future with meaning, the Marine Corps could be your path.