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Soldier Application Process

From application to Assessment Centre, here's exactly what happens next.

At a glance

Applying to become a British Army Soldier is a simple three-step journey: submit your application, attend an Army Briefing, then head to a two-day Assessment Centre for your medical, fitness and career discussion. If you pass Assessment, you'll get a job offer, an enlistment date, and be on your way to training. Many people move from application to Assessment Centre within a matter of weeks, although how long will depend on your current circumstances.

A recruiter is with you through the whole process to offer any support you might need.

Application stories from real soldiers

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Joining Steps: Regular Soldier

  • Stage 1Army Briefing

    Now that you've applied, you'll be given a local Recruiter, who may ask you extra questions. You can also follow your progress online.

    You'll be invited to attend an Army Briefing session online, where you'll learn more about the Army - and have the chance to ask questions. You'll also be given a personal development plan to follow to help you get ready for the Assessment Centre.

  • Stage 2Assessment Centre

    Your assessment will last for 2 days and will take place in one of our Assessment Centres in the UK. We will pay for your travel to get there and back.

    This is your chance to see whether the Army is right for you, and for us to see whether you're suitable to join. During your stay, the assessment will include:

    • A full medical examination.

    • Physical and mental tests.

    • Team exercises to see how you work with other people.

    • A career discussion.

    Find out what to expect at assessment

  • Stage 3After Assessment

    Once you’re through assessment there’s just some final paperwork to do before you’re ready to begin your Initial training (Phase 1):

    • We will check your references and run a background check.*

    • If everything looks OK we will send you an offer of employment.

    • When you accept the offer, you'll be given your date to start your training and you will formally join (enlist) in the Army. How quickly you can start will depend on the job you've applied to do, and the grade you were given at assessment.

    *This is nothing to worry about. We work with the following agencies for this information: Disclosure and Barring Service; Disclosure Scotland; Access Northern Ireland and National Security Vetting.

Ask a recruiter

Get the best advice on your British Army application from our very own recruiters.

What's Army life really like?

Explore life in the British Army and see why it's more than just a job.

Get ready for assessment

Prepare for the next step in your application process with tips and advice.

Ready to Apply?

Start your Application today, and see where a career in the Army could take you.