In your first step to becoming a Soldier, you’ll build confidence, break barriers, and go beyond what you thought possible. Imagine what you’ll do after.
Your biggest
Your biggest
Step is the
Step is the
first one.
first one.
Basic Combat Training, also known as "boot camp," is required of all new enlisted Soldiers to create a strong foundation for their Army experience and future goals. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped with a wealth of skills and knowledge.
Build physical and mental strength to carry out the duties of a Soldier.
Gain confidence and the ability to make informed decisions.
Acquire critical knowledge of survival skills like first aid, navigation, and hand-to-hand combat.
In Basic Training, you’re going to learn discipline… and you’re doing it alongside people you will know the rest of your Army career.– Sgt. 1st Class Jean-Noel Howell, Active Duty
Basic Training consists of four phases over 10 weeks, where you’ll learn about the Army and train to become a Soldier. Once completed, your day-to-day will focus more on what’s required for your specific job, as well as pursuing your personal goals and interests.
In this first phase, you'll start to adapt to Army life and learn about discipline, teamwork, Army programs, traditions, and more.
During the second phase, you'll train to handle weapons and equipment, and learn other hands-on aspects of being a Soldier.
In the third phase, you'll begin training with your rifle and mastering how to work effectively within your small team.
In the last phase, you'll refine and apply everything you've learned so far to complete your final rite of passage from civilian to Soldier.
Be between 17–35 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card
Have a high school diploma or GED
Be medically and physically fit
Have a minimum score on the Army’s entrance test
You’ve likely seen and heard a lot of different things about Basic Training. We’ll help clear up any misconceptions, so you know what to expect going in.
Basic Training is challenging and meant to push you to become the best version of yourself. It will help you develop mentally and physically to overcome things you didn't think possible. You'll also realize that the military and Drill Sergeants are not here to break you. Their goal is to build you up, help you find your inner strength, and teach you to succeed in both the Army and everyday life.
Typically, you'll eat in the dining facility (DFAC), which is the Army's version of a chow hall or cafeteria. There may be instances when you'll eat out in the field, in which case meals are brought along. Other times, you might eat pre-packaged Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs).
You'll have a structured schedule with your day starting at 4:30 AM. You'll have 30 minutes to wash up and be in formation by 5:00. From 5:00 to 6:30 AM, you'll do Physical Training (PT). You'll have time for breakfast before changing into your uniform to train with your Drill Sergeants. Lunch is at noon, followed by additional training, before breaking for dinner. In the evening, you'll clean the barracks, then enjoy some personal time before lights out at 9:00 PM.
Sleeping arrangements during Basic Training may differ depending on where you're at. Generally, you'll either bunk in a bay containing about 40 people or in a small room with three to six others. You can expect to get between seven and eight hours of sleep.
I don't think I'll make it through Basic Training
About 90% of candidates complete Basic Training and become Soldiers
While enlisted Soldiers attend Basic Training, those pursuing commissioned Officership go through a different program called Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC), which includes Basic Training, to help them prepare for the Army.
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Drill Sergeants will divide Soldiers into groups based on ability in order to help you build up your physical strength and endurance. The goal of Basic Training is to get the best out of everyone by creating a foundation for Soldiers to reach their full potential.
Personal safety for all Soldiers is a priority for the Army. There are programs designed to address this core value during Basic Training and focus on emphasizing the shared experiences between Soldiers.
Most men receive a haircut within the first few days and are required to keep it short throughout Basic Training. Women’s hair doesn’t have to be cut, but it must be neat. It can be short or pulled back in a ponytail, braid, or pinned up. That being said, the Army is aware of the importance of self-expression through grooming and hair and have updated the Hair and Appearance Guidelines to reflect that.
Yes, you do get paid in Basic Training on the first and fifteenth of every month. The amount depends on your rank. See salaries by rank on the Money & Pay page.
Religious expression is important to the Army, so there are services available on Sundays for a range of denominations. The standard is about an hour for the services. Once you know what location you’ll be training at, we encourage you to check the fort's website for details.
Movies tend to exaggerate many elements of Basic Training. Drill Sergeants are there for your own benefit—to motivate you to reach your full potential. They're professional and care about your well-being. That being said, they are also tough and will demand the most out of you, which can be intimidating. At the end of Basic Training, you'll really appreciate what they've done for you and how you feel about yourself.
Don't worry. You'll be surprised at what you can achieve. Your Drill Sergeant will motivate and help you. Their priority is ensuring you improve every day and ultimately succeed in every aspect of your training.
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