Can you get out of the Marines after swearing in?

If your moment of doubt comes after you've reported to boot camp, it's still not too late. As long as you're in the entry level period -- your first 180 days -- you can request an entry level separation. If you succeed, you'll get an uncharacterized discharge.

Can you back out of the military after swearing in?

If you went through all the motions of signing up for a military service only to decide it is not right for you and you have NOT been to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and have NOT taken an Oath of Enlistment, you are free to quit the process at any time.

What happens after you swear into the Marines?

After recruits swear in, they begin the 12 weeks of intensive training known as boot camp. Recruits receive physical training and learn the basics of marksmanship with the rifle and pistol, combat maneuvers, tactics, and hand-to-hand combat.

Do you go to jail if you quit the military?

Attempted desertion also is charged as a military crime, as long as the attempt went beyond mere preparation. Desertion carries a maximum punishment of dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay, and confinement of five years.

Can you change your mind after signing up for the military?

If you change your mind about joining the military, you can request to be released from the delayed enlistment process—no matter what your recruiter tells you. Most enlistments into the military are through the delayed enlistment process (DEP). The DEP is a legal, binding contract.

Taking my oath United States Marine Corps

How long after swearing in do you leave for basic?

Terms of Enlistment

Once you have completed all of the testing requirements, have determined your career path and have taken the oath of enlistment, you are ready for basic training. You report for 10 week basic training, either directly or within a year.

How do you get out of the Marines?

If you walk away, it's not a big deal. You can write a letter informing the Marines of your decision, but you don't have to. Writing can work against you, as the recruiter may show up and try to pressure you into fulfilling your obligation. If you stay firm, though, the recruiter has no authority to force you to serve.

Do I go home after MEPS?

Some people will go into their branch's delayed entry program (DEP) and go home after MEPS to wait until their ship-out date. Others will embark to basic training immediately after MEPS.

Can you quit the military at any time?

Getting a Military Discharge

There is no way to simply quit the military once you are on active duty. You are contractually, and perhaps morally, obligated to see your commitment through. However, you could be discharged from duty early if you are physically or psychologically unable to perform your duties.

How can I get out of the Marines early?

Can you quit during basic training?

After you arrive at boot camp, your fate still isn't sealed. Even though you're now on active duty, Army command can let you go without penalty during your first 180 days of service. The official term for this is entry-level separation. Boot camp is the best time because the Army has just started training you.

Are you allowed to leave the MEPS hotel?

Upon arriving at the hotel, you will check in, drop off any luggage and take a shuttle to the MEPS where ASVAB testing begins at 4 p.m. If you already have taken the ASVAB, you can hang out at the hotel, eat dinner (all meals are provided for you) and get to know some of the other applicants.

Do you pick your job at MEPS?

Instead, while at MEPS, they provide a list of job and aptitude area preferences to the job counselor, then they are placed on the qualified waiting list, for one of their preferences to become available. This can take several months.

Should I shave before MEPS female?

Hair: Do not shave your head before leaving for basic training. This applies to both males and females. Do not even arrive at basic with a military style cut (Flat Top, High-and-tight, etc.). All facial hair should be shaved thoroughly before arriving at basic training.

Can you drop out of Marine boot camp?

About 7.6% of military recruits dropped out in 2020. This is much less than years past, which saw a dropout rate of around 10.8%. While signing up for the Marine Corps involves a serious commitment, and it's not exactly ​easy​ to quit, there are a couple ways you can drop out and return to civilian life.

How long is a Marine contract?

Today, Marines are stationed around the world at all times, ready to deploy quickly whenever and wherever needed. Total service commitment ranges from four to six years.

What happens after you swear in at MEPS?

After finishing at the MEPS, recruits follow one of two options: "Direct Ship:" Departure for Basic Training occurs in a matter of days versus months. Delayed Entry Program (DEP): Commit to Basic Training at a time in the future, generally within one year.

How long is a military swearing in ceremony?

It takes up to three hours.

What happens when you swear into the military?

If you are entering as an officer you'll instead take the military oath of office. From the oath, you can see that you will be defending the Constitution -- not a person. Discipline and accepting orders is sworn to. Finally, you vow to face the UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) should any disputes arise.

How can I get out of the military legally?

How long do you have to be in the Marines to leave?

4 years of active Marine Corps duty at a station and 4 years of inactivity to be called upon at the behest of the nation. When you sign you will serve 4 yrs of active duty. You then have a choice to re-enlist or get out of the Marine Corps.

What is the dropout rate for Marine boot camp?

Marine Corps boot camp attrition rates hover between 12% and 16%, said Capt. Sam Stephenson, a Training and Education Command spokesman.

Can I bring my phone to MEPS?

Can you have your phone at MEPS? Yes, you can have your phone with you at MEPS. However, they are only generally allowed in the waiting area and are not allowed in any testing area.

Do you start getting paid after MEPS?

When Do I Get Paid? You're in the military and entitled to receive military pay at the time you take the final oath at MEPS.