Education · 1 of 5
The path
Civilians enlist straight into the Special Forces track with the 18X option. Passing selection is still up to you.
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Meet the basic rules
Before you sign
Be a US citizen, 18 to 34, meet the Army's waist-to-height standard, score 110 or more on the technical (TECH) score of the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery), qualify for Airborne School and be eligible for a secret clearance.
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Enlist with the 18X option
Varies
On active duty or in the Army National Guard. 18X is the Army's code for a Special Forces candidate.
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Basic and job training
Several months
10 weeks of Basic Combat Training, then job training, then Airborne School for parachuting.
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Preparation Course
6 weeks
Fitness and land navigation.
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Assessment and Selection
24 days
A test of physical and mental stamina. Not everyone is selected.
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Qualification Course
53 weeks
Includes a new language, survival training and a final exercise in a made-up country.