Read carefully to learn about the necessary requirements for a nigerian to join the us army and or military in general.
We will make sure to keep this page updated regularly so that prospective candidates from Nigeria can get first hand information and possible changes with regards the recruitment process.
What are the requirements for a Nigerian to join the US army?
You do not have to be a citizen of the United States to join the military, although your options may be limited.
If you are not a citizen of the United States, then to Join any branch of the military over there, you must;
- 1- live permanently and legally in the United States.
- 2- You must also be permitted to work in the United States, hold an I-551 (Permanent Residence Card), have a high school diploma, and be able to communicate in English.
Education and testing requirements for enlisting into the US Military as a Nigerian

To join the US Military as a Nigerian, you’ll be required to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
The ASVAB has 10 subtests and your Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is based on your performance on four of them, that is, you must do very well in four of these subjects.
The branch(es) of the US military you can join is also determined by your score in the test. Each branch has its own joining score.
The job specialties you qualify for are also determined by your scores on all ten subtests.
Sample questions can help you prepare for the ASVAB test so it would be nice if you could lay your hands on one if you intend to progress.

Additionally, to enlist, you must have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED).
Each year, only a small number of people with GEDs are accepted. You can improve your chances of getting a GED by doing the following:
- 1- Earning some college credits and,
- 2- Passing the Armed Forces Qualification Test with flying colors (AFQT).
READ ALSO: Different Types Of US Army Uniforms
Health and fitness requirements for joining the US military
A US military entrance medical exam is required and must be passed. The medical exam include; physical exam, hearing test, vision test, and height and weight measurements.
Physical requirements and fitness levels vary per service. These are determined by the mission’s requirements. Some jobs, even within the same branch, have more difficult or extra criteria.
Steps you need to take before joining the US military
Begin by learning about the various military branches available to you. Find out about the six active-duty branches as well as their part-time counterparts. Understand the key distinctions between officers and enlisted members. Also, explore the career fields available for each branch.
Contact a recruiter once you’ve decided which branch you want to pursue. A recruiter will give you an overview of the service and answer your queries. Contact a recruiter for each branch if you’re interested in more than one. If you’re interested in becoming an officer, the recruiter will go over the various alternatives available to you.
Contact a recruiter or apply online
Air Force
- Air Force: 1-800-423-USAF (1-800-423-8723)
- Air Force Reserve: 1-800-257-1212
- Air National Guard: 1-800-TO-GO-ANG (1-800-864-6264)
Army
- Army and Army Reserve: 1-888-550-ARMY (1-888-550-2769)
- Army National Guard: 1-800-GO-GUARD (1-800-464-8273)
Navy
- Navy and Navy Reserve: 1-800-USA-NAVY (1-800-872-6289)
Marine Corps
- Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve: 1-800-MARINES (1-800-627-4637)
Coast Guard
Space Force
- Space Force: 1-800-423-USAF (1-800-423-8723)
Source: US Gov.