7 Phases of Marine Boot Camp Schedule

Phase 1: Receiving (Week 1)

The journey to becoming a United States Marine begins at Receiving, the first phase of Marine Boot Camp. This initial phase is designed to prepare new recruits for the challenges ahead. Here, they receive their initial gear, haircuts, and medical screenings. They also undergo an initial physical fitness test to assess their current level of fitness.

Receiving Phase Objectives:

• Complete initial paperwork and processing
• Receive gear and uniforms
• Undergo medical screening and vaccinations
• Take the initial physical fitness test

🚨 Note: Recruits are immediately immersed in the Marine Corps culture and are expected to adhere to its standards from the start.

Phase 2: Red Phase (Weeks 2-4)

The Red Phase is the first stage of actual boot camp training. During this phase, recruits learn the fundamentals of being a Marine, including core values, history, and customs. They also begin their physical fitness training and learn basic combat skills.

Red Phase Objectives:

• Learn Marine Corps core values and history
• Understand the importance of teamwork and leadership
• Develop physical fitness through exercise and obstacle courses
• Learn basic combat skills, such as first aid and map reading

Phase 3: White Phase (Weeks 5-7)

In the White Phase, recruits continue to develop their physical fitness and combat skills. They also learn about Marine Corps protocol and procedures, such as drill and ceremony. This phase is designed to build on the foundation established in the Red Phase.

White Phase Objectives:

• Continue physical fitness training and obstacle courses
• Learn Marine Corps protocol and procedures
• Develop leadership and teamwork skills
• Learn combat skills, such as marksmanship and hand-to-hand combat

Phase 4: Black Phase (Weeks 8-10)

The Black Phase is the final stage of boot camp training. During this phase, recruits learn advanced combat skills and participate in field training exercises. They also learn about Marine Corps career specialties and prepare for the final exam.

Black Phase Objectives:

• Learn advanced combat skills, such as night vision and combat tactics
• Participate in field training exercises
• Learn about Marine Corps career specialties
• Prepare for the final exam

Phase 5: Swim Qualification (Week 11)

All Marines must be able to swim, and during this phase, recruits learn the basics of swimming and water survival. They also participate in swim qualification exercises to test their skills.

Swim Qualification Objectives:

• Learn basic swimming skills
• Understand water survival techniques
• Participate in swim qualification exercises

Phase 6: Confidence Chamber (Week 12)

In the Confidence Chamber, recruits face a simulated gas chamber to test their confidence and skills in a simulated combat environment.

Confidence Chamber Objectives:

• Build confidence in gas mask procedures
• Learn to respond to chemical and biological attacks
• Develop skills in simulated combat environments

Phase 7: Graduation (Week 13)

The final phase of Marine Boot Camp is graduation. Recruits participate in a ceremony to mark their completion of boot camp and are awarded the title of United States Marine.

Graduation Objectives:

• Participate in graduation ceremony
• Receive the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem
• Begin their career as a United States Marine

Marine Boot Camp is a challenging and transformative experience that pushes recruits to their limits. Through its seven phases, recruits learn the skills, values, and knowledge necessary to become a United States Marine.

As a newly minted Marine, they will be equipped to face the challenges of their new career and make their mark in the world. Whether they choose to specialize in infantry, aviation, or another field, they will carry the values of the Marine Corps with them always.

In the end, it’s not just about becoming a Marine – it’s about becoming a part of something bigger than oneself.