As a National Guardsman or woman, you will not only receive invaluable life experience and job training, but may also be eligible to receive funding for post-secondary education. This guide on how to join the National Guard provides a brief introduction on the requirements to become a guardsman and will help get you on your way to signing up—if you decide that the Guard is right for you.

Aside from providing a chance to serve your country, joining the National Guard can also be an excellent way to receive job training and gain valuable life and job experience. You may also be eligible to receive financial assistance to attend college and receive a sign-up bonus from the Guard. However, before you make the final decision to join, you should ensure that you are fully informed about the commitment you are making and the demands that will be placed upon you.

To join the National Guard, you must:

1. Be at least 17 years old: If you are under 18, you must have a parent or guardian's consent to join
2. Have a high school diploma or be enrolled in high school
3. Not have criminal record
4. Pass the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery exam
5. Meet height, weight and body fat percentage restrictions
6. Not have any major physical handicaps

• If you have questions about any of the requirements, speak to a recruitment officer. Even if you meet these requirements, you will be subject to a detailed background check and must undergo a thorough medical examination, including a drug test.

• Your decision to join the National Guard is not one to be entered into lightly. Visit your local recruitment center and speak with a recruitment officer. Ask him or her for any and all literature and available information on the Guard. Seek out a current or past guardsman or guardswoman and ask them about their experiences.

• Also be aware that as a member of the National Guard you will be required to spend a minimum of one weekend per month and two weeks per year in training. As long as you remain in the Guard, there will always be the possibility that you may be called up for active duty at short notice.

• Visit your local Army or Air Force recruitment center, speak with a recruiter and fill out an application. You can also fill out an application online and wait for a recruiter to contact you. If your application is approved, you will then be asked to complete written and physical tests.

• By joining the National Guard, you are making a commitment to your country, yourself and your fellow National Guardsmen and women. Be sure you are aware of what this commitment entails before you agree to sign up. If you do decide to join, you may find that the personal and financial rewards are well worth your efforts.

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