Join The Air Force: All Guide for Your Military Career

Is joining the U.S. Air Force on your mind? Whether it is an adventurous career or great pay and benefits that you are attached to, the Air Force provides an avenue for a fulfilling life. But are you qualified to join the Air Force? How to join this branch?

This post gets you covered. We provide everything you need to know, from eligibility criteria to the benefits you will be given as an Airman and the enlistment process. Let’s take a look at more details below to start your Air Force path right now!

Should I join the Air Force?

Definitely yes! Joining the Air Force opens the door to several attractive benefits from competitive salary packages to personal and professional growth. Specifically:

Base salary and bonuses

The Air Force values people choosing to serve, offering their Airmen a competitive base salary and a wealth of benefits. Your salary is based on rank and time in service. According to the Air Force, the following is an approximation of the monthly salary for each rank in the Air Force:

Note: E-1 pay will be slightly lower for the first four months of service. 

The Air Force also promotes up to $50,000 bonuses for their Airmen, specifically:

• Quick Ship bonus: for Airmen who can start training immediately. 
• Bonuses for all Airmen who complete training and commit to six years. 

Insurance                     

As an Airman, you will have complete medical and dental at low costs, ensuring you and your family are cared for. Benefits include receiving full pay while on sick days, and low-cost life insurance to secure your family’s future. 

Food and Housing

For those deployed on base, the Air Force covers all living expenses such as groceries that are free of tax and access to department stores. In this regard, personnel living outside the base can get a monthly housing allowance which is normally tax-free. Additionally, an Airman’s food is pegged under their monthly food allowance. 

Education opportunities

Some of the most significant advantages of joining the Air Force include educational support. You can take a college degree while serving, with up to 100% tuition assistance based on programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, or the Montgomery GI Bill. Even on basic training, you can get into college credits and those who have taken a student loan beforehand can apply for some repayment programs. 

Vacation and travel

The Air Force offers 30 days of paid vacation per year, during which you can go to a destination of your choice. Most airmen have access to extremely affordable accommodations while visiting bases all around the nation. Sports complexes, rentals, and family-oriented activities are also highly accessible on the base and at very economical prices. 

Retirement 

After 20 years of service, you will be eligible for retirement and entitled to a lifetime pension. You can also participate in the Thrift Saving Plan (TSP), helping you build long-term financial security. 

What are the requirements to join the Air Force?

Understanding the enlist requirements is essential to determine whether you qualify to join the Air Force. Here is a detailed breakdown of the requirements you should fulfill: 

General requirements

• The age limit to join the Air Force: To enlist as an enlisted Airman, you must fall between the ages of 17 and 42. Those entering through an Air Force healthcare or ministry profession can be considered a little older, between 17 and 48.

• Dependents: All female applicants will need to be at least six months postpartum to apply to be an enlisted Airman. Some eligibility will vary concerning dependents, so it is best to discuss this with your recruiter. 

• Citizenship: To enlist, you must be a US citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) and have a valid Green Card. These non-citizens are eligible to apply for naturalization through their military service, offering a pathway to naturalization. 

• Voluntary retired return to active duty: If you are retired but want to go back into active duty, you must fulfill the following requirements:
  • Be under 58 years old.
  • Retired between a Staff Sergeant, E-5, and up to a Senior Master Sergeant, E-8. 
  • Not be medically retired.
  • Be qualified for a security clearance.

Qualifications

• Education: You must be a high school graduate or GED holder with 15 or more college semester hours. If you are a high school senior, you are allowed to start enlisting now with a school statement showing you are qualified to graduate. 

• Test scores: The ASVAB score is one of the most important criteria to enlist in the Air Force, determining your eligibility and your job potential. Depending on your education level, the Air Force requires a different score minimum. For high school diploma holders, you need an ASVAB score of 31, while for GED holders, the minimum score required is 50. 

Physical requirements

Height and weight

Airmen must be within the height and weight standard according to the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is between the scale of 17.5 and 27.5. If the candidate’s BMI is over the standard range, the Air Force will apply the use of body fat measurements and their maximum body fat percentage shall be up to 26% for males and 36% for females. 

To learn more about the Air Force height and weight standards, you can read our post here. 

Air Force physical fitness

All recruits have to pass the Air Force PFT which includes sit-ups, pushups, and a run of 1.5 miles. This test ensures that all Airmen maintain physical fitness to serve with efficiency. 

How to join the Air Force

Joining the Air Force is a structured process to ensure that only qualified people enlist in serving the country. Here is the step-by-step process to enlist in the Air Force:

Step 1. Contact the recruiter

The first thing you should do is contact a recruiter. Recruiters are your best source for answering all your initial questions and walking you through the procedure. Discuss with your recruiter to understand what to expect from an Air Force career, what is expected from you, and whether the Air Force is your best suit. 

Step 2. Screening 

After deciding to enlist, your recruiter will conduct an interview and screening for you. This step will check your personal information, medical history, and police record. Medical checks such as blood pressure, alcohol and drug tests, and even physical tests may be included to ensure you are morally and medically fit for the next process. 

Step 3. Take ASVAB test

One of the most important steps in this enlistment process is taking the ASVAB test. This test will determine how qualified you would be for this branch and particular job. There are 9 subtests covering knowledge in four domains: verbal, math, science, and spatial.

To ace the ASVAB and secure your Air Force enlistment, it is recommended that you practice the ASVAB test tailored for the Air Force by ASVAB Prep. 

Practice free full-length Air Force ASVAB practice test

Step 4. Take physical exam

All Airmen have to take physical fitness tests to evaluate their fitness on running, body composition, push-ups, and crunches. Your scores in each area are based on your age, gender, body measurement, amount of repetitions, or estimated time. While you have to get a passing score, it is recommended that you prepare for this test in advance. 

Step 5. Choose your Air Force career

After qualifying for the ASVAB and physical requirements, you will be taking the time to work with your counselor about what Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) you qualify for. This process ensures you are placed in a position that fits your interest and skill set, allowing you to contribute effectively to the Air Force while building a satisfying career. 

Step 6. Start Air Force boot camp

The Air Force Basic Training, also known as boot camp, is a 7.5-week training that will turn you into a fully qualified Airman. The course covers training in physical fitness, combat skills, discipline, teamwork, and Air Force values and traditions. After completing the Basic Training, you will be forwarded to your technical training school for job-specific skill development. 

FAQs

1. Can you join the Air Force with asthma?

The answer depends on your conditions. A waiver will be needed with an additional medical check. Connect with your recruiter for more detailed guidelines.

2. How long does it take to join the Air Force?

The time of enlistment process varies depending on your background, medical and legal records, your skills, and your desired positions. Typically, it can take 8 to 12 months from the first appointment with a recruiter to the shipping. 

3. Is it hard to join the Air Force?

Joining the Air Force is challenging due to its attractive career and benefits. However, it can be achievable if you seriously devote your effort and have the right preparation. Practicing for the physical fitness test and the ASVAB is the first smart move to place you closer to the Air Force. 

4. What do you need to join the Air Force?

To join the Air Force, you need to meet basic requirements on age, citizenship, education, ASVAB score, and physics. Carefully read the details on what it takes to join in our post above to be well-prepared.  

5. Is joining the Air Force worth it?

Definitely yes! The Air Force offers competitive pay, great benefits, and career opportunities. 

6. Can you join the Air Force with ADHD?

Maybe, but only under specific circumstances. Your ADHD If you are currently diagnosed with ADHD or are medicated for the condition, you will have a chance to get a medical waiver. If you can demonstrate that they do not require medication or accommodations, ADHD does not disqualify you from enlistment. 

7. Can you join the Air Force with a GED?

Yes, but you must meet higher requirements compared to those having a high school diploma. 

8. Can you join the Air Force with glasses?

Yes, you can join the Air Force if you wear glasses. However, some positions such as pilot, have a higher requirement for vision. Ask your recruiter for more information on what the vision requirements are for your desired career. 

9. Can you join the Air Force with tattoos?

Yes, you can have tattoos. However, the Air Force has restrictions on the size, location, and content of tattoos. Tattoos above the collarbone, and on the hands, containing obscene content are generally not accepted. 

10. What is the age limit to join the Air Force?

It is from 17-42 years old. However, if you look forward to joining the healthcare or ministry profession, the upper age limit is 48 years old. 

Final thoughts

To join the Air Force offers an extremely rewarding career of teaching, learning, and exploring. Whether motivated by serving your country or taking advantage of the amazing benefits, the Air Force is a stable and fulfilling career. Ready to get started? Read our guide carefully and contact a recruiter today! Good luck on your Air Force journey!

Amy Duong

I am a seasoned content writer with a deep specialization in military topics, backed by years of research and experience. My work spans a wide range of military subjects, from life in the armed forces to the latest in defense technology. My insights and thorough analysis make me a valuable resource for those seeking accurate and in-depth military content.