Military Service
Military service is one of several pathways students may pursue after graduation. Joining the military allows individuals to serve their country, develop career skills, earn a steady salary, and receive educational benefits.
Many service members also earn college tuition assistance or GI Bill benefits, which can help cover the cost of college during or after military service.
Students interested in military careers should begin exploring opportunities during high school and work with their school counselor or CCMR specialist to plan ahead.
Preparing for Military Service in High School
Students considering military service can begin preparing early by learning about different branches, developing leadership skills, and exploring training opportunities.
Speak with a Military Recruiter
Students interested in military service should speak with recruiters from different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Each branch offers different career paths, training programs, and educational benefits.
Recruiters often visit high school campuses and can provide information about:
- Military career opportunities
- Enlistment requirements
- Training programs
- Education benefits and scholarships
Students are encouraged to compare options before making a decision.
Take the ASVAB Test
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a test that helps identify strengths and potential career paths in the military.
The ASVAB measures abilities in areas such as:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Mechanical knowledge
- Verbal skills
Many high schools offer the ASVAB on campus. Students can also contact a local recruiting office to schedule the exam.
Taking the ASVAB does not require a student to enlist in the military.
Students should speak with their campus counselor or CCMR specialist to learn when the ASVAB will be offered at their school.
Join the JROTC
The Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program allows students to develop leadership skills, discipline, and teamwork while learning about military service.
Participating in JROTC may provide advantages if a student later chooses to enlist in the military.
Students interested in JROTC should visit the NEISD JROTC program page or speak with their school counselor.
For more information, please visit the NEISD JROTC website.
U.S. Military Service Academies
Some students choose to pursue officer training by attending one of the United States Military Service Academies.
Admission to these academies is highly competitive and requires early preparation, including academic achievement, leadership experience, and a congressional nomination.
Students interested in military academies should begin preparing during their junior year of high school.
The following addresses are provided for your information:
United States Military Academy (Army)
Director of Admissions
United States Military Academy
Building 606
West Point, New York 10996
1-845-938-4041
United States Naval Academy (Navy & Marine Corps)
Candidate Guidance Office
United States Naval Academy
117 Decatur Road
Annapolis, Maryland 21402-5017
(410) 293-1858
United States Air Force Academy
Director of Admissions
HQ USAFA/RRS
2304 Cadet Drive,
Suite 2300 USAF Academy, Colorado 80840
1-800-443-9266
United States Coast Guard Academy
Director of Admissions
United States Coast Guard Academy
31 Mohegan Avenue
New London, Connecticut 06320-8103
1-800-883-8724
United States Merchant Marine Academy
Director of Admissions
United States Merchant Marine Academy
300 Steamboat Rd
Kings Point, New York 11024-1699
1-866-546-4778 or (516) 726-5800
Students interested in attending a service academy should speak with their school counselor early to begin the application process.
ROTC Scholarships
Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) scholarships allow students to attend college while preparing to become a military officer.
ROTC scholarships may cover:
- College tuition
- Educational expenses
- Monthly stipends
In return, graduates commit to four to six years of military service after completing their degree.
Because ROTC scholarships are highly competitive, students should begin preparing and applying during high school.
Students can learn more about ROTC opportunities by contacting ROTC programs through participating colleges or military branches.
Selective Service Registration
Federal law requires all male U.S. citizens and residents to register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday.
Failure to register may impact eligibility for:
- Federal financial aid
- Certain government programs
- Federal employment
Students can complete Selective Service registration online.