After completing your processing at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) where you undergo medical exams, ASVAB testing, and job selection your departure for Basic Training (also called boot camp) isn’t immediate for most recruits. The timeline varies by military branch, your chosen job (MOS or rating), training slot availability, and personal factors like pending medical waivers or family obligations. Understanding this helps you plan effectively.
Typical Timelines by Branch:
- Army: Expect 2 weeks to 6 months. High-demand roles can ship you out in 30-60 days for bonuses, while specialized jobs may delay up to a year.
- Navy: Usually 1 week to 6 months, averaging 2-3 months. Quick ships (e.g., 2.5 weeks) happen for urgent needs, but DEP (Delayed Entry Program) allows up to a year.
- Air Force: 3 weeks to 6 months, often 30-90 days. Rare jobs can accelerate this to days.
- Marines: 1-3 months, with slots filling based on recruit cycles.
- National Guard/Coast Guard: Similar to active duty, but often 1-6 months to align with unit needs.
On average, most enlistees ship within 30-90 days. If you’re a “direct ship,” you could leave in days—pack light and say goodbyes fast! Otherwise, join DEP to stay home while prepping.
Key Factors Influencing Your Ship Date:
- Job Availability: Technical fields (e.g., cyber) wait longer than combat arms.
- Recruitment Needs: High quotas mean faster departures.
- Personal Prep: Finish school, resolve waivers, or request delays for events.
- Seasonal Cycles: Avoid holiday slowdowns; aim for fiscal year starts (October).
What to Do While Waiting:
Use this time wisely—ramp up PT (push-ups, runs, pull-ups), review military basics via apps, tie up finances (e.g., update banking), and spend quality time with family. Contact your recruiter weekly for updates; they’ll assign your “ship date.” Bring essentials to MEPS: ID, SSN card, and medical records.
Delays can feel frustrating, but they’re normal. Stay fit, positive, and ready Basic awaits!