Joining the Marines Over 28: What You Need to Know
Are you considering joining the Marines but are over 28 years old? While the maximum age for enlisting in the Marines is 28, there are certain exceptions and waivers that can be granted. In this article, we’ll explore the 5 ways to join the Marines over 28.
Understanding the Maximum Age Limit
The maximum age limit for enlisting in the Marines is 28 years old. This is due to the physical demands of Marine Corps training and the need for recruits to complete their service before they reach a certain age. However, there are certain exceptions and waivers that can be granted.
Way 1: Prior Service Waiver
If you have prior military service, you may be eligible for a waiver to join the Marines. This waiver is typically granted to those who have served in other branches of the military and want to join the Marines. To be eligible for a prior service waiver, you must:
- Have served in another branch of the military
- Meet the Marine Corps’ enlistment requirements
- Have a good service record
- Be willing to enlist for a minimum of 4 years
🚨 Note: Prior service waivers are typically granted on a case-by-case basis and require approval from the Marine Corps' enlistment department.
Way 2: Officer Candidate School (OCS)
If you’re over 28 and have a bachelor’s degree, you may be eligible to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS is a 10-week training program that prepares college graduates to become Marine Corps officers. To be eligible for OCS, you must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Meet the Marine Corps’ officer commissioning requirements
- Be willing to serve as an officer for a minimum of 4 years
Way 3: Limited Duty Officer (LDO) Program
The Limited Duty Officer (LDO) program allows individuals with specialized skills to join the Marines as an officer. This program is open to individuals who are over 28 and have a bachelor’s degree. To be eligible for the LDO program, you must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Have a specialized skill (e.g. aviation, cyber security, etc.)
- Meet the Marine Corps’ officer commissioning requirements
- Be willing to serve as an officer for a minimum of 4 years
Way 4: Warrant Officer Program
The Warrant Officer program allows individuals with specialized skills to join the Marines as a warrant officer. This program is open to individuals who are over 28 and have a bachelor’s degree. To be eligible for the Warrant Officer program, you must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Have a specialized skill (e.g. aviation, cyber security, etc.)
- Meet the Marine Corps’ warrant officer requirements
- Be willing to serve as a warrant officer for a minimum of 4 years
Way 5: Age Waiver
In some cases, the Marine Corps may grant an age waiver to individuals who are over 28. This waiver is typically granted to those who have exceptional skills or experience that would be beneficial to the Marine Corps. To be eligible for an age waiver, you must:
- Meet the Marine Corps’ enlistment requirements
- Have exceptional skills or experience
- Be willing to enlist for a minimum of 4 years
🚨 Note: Age waivers are typically granted on a case-by-case basis and require approval from the Marine Corps' enlistment department.
Conclusion
While the maximum age limit for enlisting in the Marines is 28, there are certain exceptions and waivers that can be granted. Whether you’re a prior service member, a college graduate, or an individual with specialized skills, there are ways to join the Marines over 28. It’s essential to research and understand the requirements and eligibility for each of these options.
What is the maximum age limit for enlisting in the Marines?
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The maximum age limit for enlisting in the Marines is 28 years old.
Can I join the Marines if I’m over 28?
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Yes, there are certain exceptions and waivers that can be granted. You may be eligible for a prior service waiver, Officer Candidate School (OCS), Limited Duty Officer (LDO) program, Warrant Officer program, or an age waiver.
What are the requirements for a prior service waiver?
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To be eligible for a prior service waiver, you must have served in another branch of the military, meet the Marine Corps’ enlistment requirements, have a good service record, and be willing to enlist for a minimum of 4 years.
