Navy vs National Guard Requirements: What is the difference?
The call to serve can take many forms – from conquering the high seas in a mighty aircraft carrier to safeguarding your local community as a citizen-soldier. But when it comes to choosing between the Navy and the National Guard, figuring out the requirement differences can be difficult. So, Navy vs National Guard Requirements: What is the difference? Let’s explain.
Age and Citizenship
Navy: 17-35 years old (17 with parental consent) and US citizen.
National Guard: 17-35 years old and US citizen or legal permanent resident.
Education and Testing
Navy: High school diploma or GED required. Must pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) with qualifying scores for the desired job and meet additional requirements for certain Navy jobs (e.g., nuclear field).
National Guard: High school diploma or GED preferred. ASVAB is required for both enlisted and officer paths, but minimum scores may vary depending on specific unit requirements.
Physical Fitness
Navy: Must meet body composition standards (Body Mass Index, waist circumference) and pass a fitness test. Specific requirements vary slightly depending on the desired job and program (e.g., SEALs have more stringent standards).
National Guard: Similar body composition and fitness test requirements, but specifics may vary across the units.
Commitment
Navy: Some jobs require specific medical qualifications (e.g., normal vision for pilots). Enlisted careers typically involve longer deployments at sea.
National Guard: Offers more diverse job options (e.g., infantry, medic, cyber security, research) depending on your unit. Part-time commitment with potential for deployments (domestic and international).
Which one is right for me?
Do open waters, adventure, and technical skills like aviation or sonar call to you? The Navy might be your port of call.
OR
If you prioritize serving your community close to home, balancing civilian life with military service, and learning versatile skills like disaster response or healthcare while still pursuing your personal passions, the National Guard could be your ideal choice.
To get answers to your specific questions, talk to recruiters from your local National Guard unit. They can help you find the path that aligns with your passions and lifestyles.
