Updated Information about Marine Corps height and weight standards

The Marine Corps height and weight standards are one of the initial physical requirements of the US Marine Corps to ensure that all personnel meet the necessary duties. These standards help maintain operational readiness and ensure that Marines are fit for the demanding challenges of services. By combining height, weight, and body fat measurements, the Marine Corps can assess recruited and active members to promote health and combat effectiveness. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for both enlistment and continued service. In this blog post, we will explore the latest height and weight requirements to help you fully prepare for enlistment. 

What are Marine Corps height and weight standards?

Marine Corps height and weight standards are typically classified according to the gender and height of the applicants. Now let’s shed light on each gender’s requirements.

marine corps height and weight standards

USMC height and weight standards for males

For men, to be an applicant they must also need to meet specific height and weight requirements based on their height and body composition. The acceptable height range is between 58 inches and 86 inches. Similarly to the female standard, the weight standards of men are tied to height, and if a male exceeds the weight limit for his height, a body fat percentage test is also conducted. Particularly, men must maintain a body fat percentage below 18% to meet the Marine Corps fitness and readiness requirements for combat and service.

Marine Corps height and weight standards for females

For women, the acceptable height range is typically between 52 inches and 86 inches (6 feet 8 inches). Weight standards vary according to height, and if a female exceeds these limits, a body fat percentage test is conducted. Specifically, females must maintain a body fat percentage of no more than 26% to meet the fitness standards required for services.

Height (inches)Minimum weightMaximum weight
Male/FemaleMaleFemale
5273106100
5376110104
5479114108
5582118112
5685122115
5788127120
5891131124
5994136129
6097141133
61100145137
62104150142
63107155146
64110160151
65114165156
66117170161
67121175166
68125180171
69128186176
70132191181
71136197186
72140202191
73144208197
7414214202
75152220208
76156225213
77160231219
78164237225
79168244230
80173256236
81177263242
82182269248
83186276255
84191276261
85195283267
86200289274

Alternative for USMC height and weight standards

The weight and height requirements of the Marine Corps are stringent. As long as you satisfy the service’s body fat requirements, it is okay to not meet the height and weight requirements.

marine corps height and weight standards

Marine Corps Body Composition Standards
Age groupPercentage body fat
MaleFemale
17-201827
21-251827
26-301928
31-351928
36-402029
41-452029
46-502130
51+2130

 

FAQs

1. What is the minimum height to join the Marine Corps?

The minimum height to join the Marine Corps is 58 inches (4 feet 10 inches). This requirement ensures that all recruits can meet the physical demands of military service.

2. Can you get kicked out of the Marines for being overweight?

Being overweight might disqualify you from joining the US Marines Corp because you might not be able to meet several physical duties there. However, there is an alternative for you is the body fat percentage. Even when your weight exceeds standard height, you are still qualified as long as your body fat rate does not exceed 26% (for females) and 18% (for males)

Final thoughts

Meeting the US Marine Corps height and weight standard is the first step that must be passed for anyone desiring to join the Marines. These standards are designed to ensure all Marines maintain the physical fitness necessary for operational effectiveness and combat readiness. Adhering to these requirements not only helps with enlistment but also supports career advancement within the Corps. If you exceed weight limits, remember that alternatives like body fat percentage testing may still allow for qualification. Stay informed and committed to your fitness journey to succeed in the Marine Corps. Explore our resources and take the next step toward your military career!

Be sure to explore our resources and take the free Marine ASVAB practice test to help prepare for your journey.


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