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Want to know more? Get up to date with the latest stories about service members and how all six branches make a positive impact every day.
Hear from young service members about their decisions to join, the friendships they’ve forged, the skills they’ve developed, and their opportunities to make an impact in the Military.
Service Branches
The Army Reserve offers you the opportunity to work in your civilian career or attend college full time while serving near home. Army Reserve Soldiers receive the same training as active-duty Soldiers. After Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), Army Reserve Soldiers return to their civilian lives and spend one weekend a month and two weeks per year training to keep their skills sharp.
Dae McDonald: Army Reserve Broadcast Specialist and Aspiring Actress
Making a Difference as a Civilian Soldier
To enlist in the Army Reserve, you must be between 18 and 35 years old (17 with parental consent). You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A high school diploma is preferred, but a high school equivalent such as the GED may be accepted. You must also take the ASVAB test and a physical fitness exam.
All Army Reserve Soldiers must complete 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training, the same boot camp attended by full-time Army Soldiers.
The Army Reserve can be a great way to develop career skills and serve our nation while maintaining a civilian career. More than 120 Reserve jobs are available for qualified applicants. If you think you might be interested in a full-time career, get information about service in the Army. You can also serve part time through the Army National Guard.
The Army Reserve offers an array of employment benefits, including bonuses, money for college, student loan repayment and low-cost health and life insurance. Army Reserve Soldiers develop leadership and problem-solving skills and confidence, and work as a team toward a larger goal. These capabilities are valued in the civilian workplace.
The U.S. Military consists of six active-duty Service branches and their respective Guard and Reserve components. Together, they offer a broad variety of ways to serve.