The Guard has very specific enlistment requirements. If you are thinking about joining and want to know how you measure up, the links below will tell you everything you need to know.

See also our Enlistment Frequently Asked Questions.

The height/weight chart will show you what the weight requirements are for joining the Guard to make sure you are in good physical shape. Refer to AR 600-9: The Army Weight Control Program for full details.

What are the push up, sit up and running requirements to graduate from Basic Training? The APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test) chart will show you what you need to accomplish to graduate.

"Do I need a GED or High School diploma?". If you do not have a GED or a HS diploma, the Guard can help. The Army National Guard’s GED Plus Program provides free training and testing services that will enable you to successfully obtain your GED.

The Army National Guard will pay you to get your GED when you enlist. If you don't have either a high school diploma or alternate education credentials (GED, National Guard Youth Challenge, Correspondence Diploma, etc) we can help. You can enlist under the “Army National Guard GED Plus Program”. You must have a minimum AFQT score of 31% and a certified transcript showing completion of the ninth grade. You must also meet the following criteria:

1. You must have withdrawn from high school for at least six months prior to your date of application for enlistment. No waivers are authorized.
2. You must be 18 years old or older, or not be eligible to return to your local high school to complete your diploma program.
3. You must scorce a minimum of 31% on the AFQT. If you score 50 or higher on the ASVAB you may be eligible for other incentives and/or bonuses.
4. Anyone testing positive on the Drug and Alcohol Test (DAT) screening will be immediately discharged from the program. DAT waivers are not authorized.

If you enlist under the GED Plus Program you will not be able to participate in the Split Training Option (STO), and may not be shipped for Initial Entry Training (IET) until you complete theGEDPlus Program.

The GED Plus training program will take place at the Professional Education Center in Arkansas.

Anyone enlisting under the GED Plus Program who presents an accredited GED completion certificate or diploma prior to shipping will not be required to attend the ARNG GED Plus Training program.

Contact us to learn more about all the valuable educational opportunities, and all the other excellent benefits in the Army National Guard.