HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO JOIN THE ARMY?

To join as a Soldier:

• You must be at least 16 years old to join the Army as a soldier. This can change depending on your role, so check the individual role details.

• You can start your application when you're 15 years and 7 months, but you won't be able to go to the assessment centre until you're at least 15 years and 9 months old.

• If you are under 17 years 6 months you will attend Army Foundation College, as a Junior Solider, before starting Standard Entry training.

• If you're under 18, you'll also need parental consent to join.

• Be enlisted before your 36th birthday.

To join as an Officer:

• Be between 18 and 29.

• Higher age limits apply for specialists, eg Doctors.

• Over 30s are considered only by exception, on a case by case basis. Please contact us on 0345 600 8080 to discuss your options.

• Scholarship applicants must be under 18 on 1 August in the year of the award.

As a Reservist Soldier:

• Be at least 17 years and 9 months when you apply.

• You can apply for most roles until you're 42 years and 6 months old, but you must have joined by your 43 birthday - check Rolefinder for more information about the role you are interested in joining.

• There are higher age limits for some specialist roles.

As a Reservist Officer:

• Be at least 17 years and 9 months when you apply.

• Apply by the time you're 48 years and 9 months.

• There are higher age limits for some specialist roles.

Not old enough?

If you're not old enough to join, you can still get involved.

Become an Army Cadet If you're between 12 and 18 you can enjoy sports, expeditions, outdoor adventure and loads of Army-themed activities as a member of the Army Cadet Force.

You can learn survival skills and weapons handling, work towards a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and even get some extra qualifications.

There are 1,700 detachments throughout the country so there’s bound to be one near you.