Frequently Asked Questions
To make an informed decision, your son or daughter must understand the Marines and what they stand for. This web site and Marines.com can answer many questions, but there is no better way to introduce yourself to the Marine Corps than by talking with your local Marine recruiter.
What if my son or daughter isn't physically prepared for Recruit Training?Your son or daughter's Marine recruiter will help with their physical preparation. Senior Marines at your local recruiting station conduct regular events and monitor the preparation of each future Recruit to help prepare for success at Recruit Training. Note: Your son or daughter can't ship until they pass the IST or Initial Strength Test.
Who makes the travel arrangements to attend Recruit Training?The Corps takes care of the travel arrangements for recruits.
Does one need a high-school diploma to enlist?Yes, but on occasion there are openings for those with alternative high school credentials.
What is the Delayed Entry Program?The Delayed Entry Program (DEP) will give your son or daughter time to prepare for recruit training, by delaying departure for up to a year. He or she will work with a recruiter to help them meet the initial strength requirements. The recruiter will also provide tips on everything from nutrition to good study habits.
What happens if my future Marine fails a portion of Recruit Training?In the event that your future Marine is unable to adequately pass a required event, he or she may be recycled in training to repeat and master that portion. This may delay graduation.
Will my future Marine get paid while at Recruit Training?Yes. Each Recruit will enroll in the Direct Deposit program after their arrival at Recruit Training. After completion of Recruit Training, Marines can change their Direct Deposit to any bank or financial institution of their choice.
Can Marines choose where they will be stationed?Marines are stationed based on their experience, jobs, and the Corps' needs at the time. Most Marine Corps bases are located on either the east or west coasts of the United States. However, there are a few bases overseas, such as Japan.
Where are Marines stationed?The Corps operates around the world, and has bases located throughout the United States.
Are daily physical workouts necessary after Recruit Training is complete?Marines are committed to a physically demanding lifestyle and are tested twice a year on their fitness. You will have a difficult time finding a current or former Marine who is not involved in regular physical activity – it is part of what Marines do and becomes a part of who they are.
Can my future Marine attend college while in the Marine Corps?Yes. There are many programs available to help Marines further their education. Your local recruiter has all the up-to-date information on college programs.
Can I pick up my new Marine at the end of Recruit Training?Yes. Upon completion of the graduation ceremony, your "new Marine" will receive the opportunity for a short period of leave.
What happens after Recruit Training?After graduation, Marines receive 10 days leave. They then return to continue training at the School of Infantry/Marine Combat Training before attending training in their Military Occupational Specialty, or MOS.
Do new Marines go overseas after Recruit Training?New Marines do not go overseas right after training. On average, each new Marine requires an additional six to nine months of further training before they are deployed either overseas or in the States.
Can my future Marine come home while in the Marine Corps?Your son or daughter will be afforded 30 days of paid vacation per year.
How long do recruits train for their Military Occupation Specialty (MOS)?The length of training varies depending on the MOS assigned. Throughout their time in the Marine Corps, they are constantly learning and given opportunities to improve their skills as Marines.
Can my future Marine become an officer later if he or she wishes to do so?The Marine Corps has several programs to afford Marines the opportunity to become officers. Your recruiter has all the up-to-date information on all officer programs.
What makes the Marines different from other military branches?The Marines have been "First to Fight" for over 230 years. We are always ready for service and are often the first to arrive in a crisis. We may be called upon at any time to go anywhere. The Marine Corps is the only branch of the armed services specifically organized with air, land, and sea-based expeditionary fighting capabilities.
I want to talk with a current Marine about the Corps. How do I find one?Start with your local recruiter. He or she will be able to provide you with the assistance you need.
Do males and females in the same Marine job make the same salary?Yes.
How does the Marine Corps prepare a person for professional opportunities once they have completed their service?The Corps instills drive and leadership. This is a hallmark of service and something any young man or woman would be privileged to possess. There is also a special group, Marine For Life, that assists former Marines making the transition into the civilian workplace.
Other than an office visit with a recruiter, how can I learn about my son or daughter's decision?Parents are always welcome at scheduled events that offer insight into the Marine life, such as career fairs. Information is also available on Marines.com, and in the parent's brochure.
How can I locate someone in the Marines?Visit the following web site to locate Marines on active duty: Marine Corps Locator.
Are there technical jobs in the Marines?Technical jobs are available to both enlisted Marines and officers. These technical jobs can provide excellent training and experience for civilian positions. Remember that the qualities that make for successful Marines are the same ones that make for successful citizens.
What role does the Marine Corps Reserves play in the Corps?The Marine Corps Reserves maintains mission readiness by training one weekend a month and two weeks a year. They are called up to active duty if the need for their service arises.
Can my son or daughter attend religious services?Yes. Recruits are encouraged to attend any of several religious services.
What kinds of restrictions are included with the Montgomery G.I. Bill?Funds can be used for any approved schooling that takes place up to 10 years after an honorable discharge.
How much assistance is available through the Marine Corps College Fund?With the Montgomery G.I. Bill, it provides virtually all funding for a college education.
What are the three main methods Marines use to fund their education?Assistance with tuition can be received through the Montgomery G.I. Bill, the Marine Corps College Fund, and the Tuition Assistance Program.
What kind of tuition assistance will my son or daughter receive?For active duty Marines, the Tuition Assistance Program provides up to 100% of the cost of education at accredited colleges or universities. There are other programs, such as the Montgomery G.I. Bill and the Marine Corps College Fund, that provide assistance as well. Ask your recruiter for more information.
What if my son or daughter can't get off base for classes?On-base education opportunities include Base Education Centers, which allow Marines to complete most or all requirements for a college degree.
Can any Marine pursue higher education?College coursework and learning is available to all Marines.
What qualities must candidates possess?Potential officers must display superior leadership skills and the ability to take initiative. They must also be a U.S. Citizen and have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university prior to applying for the program.
Do any Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) involve working with computers?Today's Marines use technology a great deal. Computers are used for everything from Media Ops to Cryptography.
What type of healthcare is available to Marines?Marines and their dependents receive free medical and low cost dental care.
Do Marines receive the same salary as those in the other services?Yes. All the military branches have the same Department of Defense pay scale. This ensures each rank has the same pay, no matter where your son or daughter serves. Specific information can be found at the official Marine Corps web site.
How many days of vacation will my son or daughter receive?He or she will receive thirty days of paid vacation each year.
What are the Core Values of the United States Marine Corps?The Core Values are honor, courage, and commitment. These values are the very reason why the Marines can meet any challenge.
