The Air Force Reserve is an excellent way to begin your military career. First, it gives you time to pursue your civilian career or go to school. In fact, the Reserve will help you pay for your education. Second, the Reserve provides a good environment in which to learn about the military. Finally, job opportunities and career paths exist in the Reserve that may not be readily available in other branches of the service.
If you have never served in the military and wish to join the Air Force Reserve, you must:
- Be 17 to 34 years old.
- Be in good health.
- Be of strong character.
Check with a Recruiter for specific details. Call 800-257-1212 or chat online.
Another important pre-requisite is the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a comprehensive series of academic and psychological tests. Various Internet sites have sample ASVAB questions if you wish to see what these tests are like. Try a sample test here!
If you join the Air Force Reserve and have never served in the military, you must go through Basic Military Training. This is an 8 1/2 week course in physical training and learning the culture of the military conducted at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. It's a good idea to get in shape for Basic Training by exercising three to five times a week for at least six weeks in advance. To graduate Basic Training you will have to pass a number of physical fitness requirements.
When you join the Air Force Reserve, you are entitled to a wide range of benefits - similar to benefits you would receive if you were on Active Duty.
- Do the extraordinary. You will go to places and do things that are just not possible as a civilian. You will meet people and make friendships that only exist in the military.
- Get an education. the Air Force Reserve constantly stresses education, and encourages Reservists to continue to learn. To facilitate that, the Reserve offers a non-contributory GI Bill, and another program that pays as much as 100% Tuition Assistance, free credits at the Community College of the Air Force, and specialized technical training that leads to certifications and licenses. There can also be bonuses and incentives for those going into critically needed areas.
- Earn a second pay check. The Air Force Reserve offers good part-time jobs with great benefits and competitive pay. If you're a full-time student, you will have the time to study while you serve in the Reserve. If you have a job, you will enjoy the extra income earned as a member of the Reserve.
- Save through the Commissary and BX Privileges. Reservists are eligible to use military bases which offer tax free department store shopping and supermarket shopping at great savings, and there is the opportunity to rent recreational equipment at discounted rates.
- Low-cost health insurance. The Air Force Reserve is offering inexpensive health care insurance for the Reservist and members of his or her immediate family. This can be a significant cost savings through TRICARE, a program which is offered to those on Active Duty as well.
- Plan for the future. The military offers excellent retirement benefits, inexpensive life insurance, and a reserve health care plan. These benefits make it very easy to build security.
- Don't move. When you join the Air Force Reserve, you do not have to relocate. You can continue to live at home and still serve. However, you can join the Reserve in the city of your choice. It's your decision.