There is truth to that statement
The Marine Corps, like all the branches can take folks with a GED. However, the percentage is very small. In fact, it's two percent of all enlistments (We enlist nearly 40,000 annually). So, you are talking 800 GED spots per year, nationwide for the USMC. Obviously, these are given out on a "best qualified" and "first come, first served" basis. You improve your chances of getting in with a GED if you have the 15 college credits. With the college credits, you are considered equal to a traditional HS graduate and not a GED. GED's get a bum rap because most people think GED'ers are quitters and it is easier to get the GED certificate than gut out four years in traditional HS to get the actual diploma. So, get the credits if you must, or ask your recruiter how many GEDs he has enlisted this year and can you speak to his commander to plead your case to be allowed in with a GED alone. Good luck.
unless something has changed
Ok, I know I have been off recruiting duty since '95 but I dont think things have changed that much.
I believe your recruiter is correct. I put in a guy that had a GED and the credits (his credits were from job corps, just a tech school but it was listed as accredited in the books)- but not to steer you wrong - you dont need the GED, the college credits alone put you into a completly different catagory.
Check with your recruiter to get the real scoop.
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Not sure what you mean...
Greg,
Are you getting a high school diploma? Where did the 12 college credits come from?
The Tiers represent different categories and quality standards in recruiting. Because of enlistment standards, only small percentages of applicants can come from the lower tiers (Tier II and Tier III). Almost 96% of all applicants enlist as Tier I's. This Tier represents individuals who have a four-year (traditional) high school diploma or students who have 15 college credits. The college credits are viewed to be equal to the H.S. diploma. Appliants with 15 college credits do not have to possess a H.S. diploma to enlist.
If you enlist with a high school diploma and have completed a semester of college, you could qualify for a promotion. That means instead of shipping to training as a Private, you'd be a Private First Class.
I hope that answers your question.
Getting in marines with a GED
In July of 06 I had signed into the DEP program... I had exited DEP about January of 07 because I had dropped out of school and figured I could not go in with a GED. A recruiter at the port richey office called me and said if I got my GED he could get me in still and I had not gotten my GED until Octobed of 07. The recruiter in Brooksville now keeps telling me I need 15 college credits which I wouldn't mind getting but the fact I don't have the money to afford classes is the only thing keeping me back. I know the whole GED thing means your a quitter but I did it so I wouldn't have to stay in school another year to make up a credit and a half making in longer before I could go in. I want to know if there is anyways I can contact a head recruiter and see if I can get it with just my GED or else I am possibly thinking of joining the Army. Can somebody please help me?