How to become a soldier
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
You could apply to join the army through an HM forces serviceperson intermediate apprenticeship.
You'll need to apply directly to the army to find the best apprenticeship route for you. This will depend on your qualifications and which service role you're interested in, for example, infantry, artillery or medical.
Entry requirements
- entry requirements vary
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Volunteering
Join the Army Reserve to get experience of what life is like in the regular army. You'll also learn new skills at the same time.
You'll need to:
- be aged between 18 and 49
- commit to at least 19 or 27 days a year, depending on your unit
- attend a 2-week training camp each year
If you're between 12 and 18 years old, you can join the Army Cadet Force.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to join the army. You don't need any specific qualifications unless you're applying for a technical role like engineering or communications.
You'll also need to be:
- aged between 16 and 33
- physically fit
If your application is accepted, you'll be invited to talk to someone at your local army careers centre about what you want to do. You'll then attend an assessment, which includes medical and fitness tests.
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Further information
You'll find more information about careers in the army through Army Careers.