Intro
Unlock the elite world of Marine Corps Special Operations. Discover the 7 ways to join MARSOC, the prestigious special operations force of the US Marine Corps. Learn about the rigorous selection process, training, and requirements, and get expert tips on how to prepare for the challenge. Become a Critical Skills Operator and join the ranks of the few and the proud.
MARSOC, or the United States Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, is an elite special operations force that conducts a variety of missions, including counterterrorism, direct action, and special reconnaissance. If you're interested in joining MARSOC, here are 7 ways to increase your chances of being selected:
The Challenges of Joining MARSOC
Before we dive into the 7 ways to join MARSOC, it's essential to understand the challenges involved. The selection process for MARSOC is notoriously difficult, with a high dropout rate. Candidates must be in top physical condition, possess strong leadership skills, and demonstrate a strong commitment to the Marine Corps' values.
1. Meet the Basic Requirements
To be eligible for MARSOC, candidates must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between the ages of 20 and 28
- Score a minimum of 105 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Have a minimum of 2 years of service remaining on their enlistment contract
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
Physical Requirements
In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must also meet the physical requirements for MARSOC, which include:
- Completing a 500-yard swim in 12 minutes or less
- Running 10 miles in 1 hour and 20 minutes or less
- Performing 100 push-ups in 2 minutes or less
- Performing 100 sit-ups in 2 minutes or less
2. Enlist in the Marine Corps
To join MARSOC, you must first enlist in the Marine Corps. You can do this by visiting a recruiter or by applying online. Once you've enlisted, you'll attend boot camp, where you'll undergo 13 weeks of intense training to prepare you for life as a Marine.
3. Complete the Infantry Training Battalion (ITB)
After completing boot camp, you'll attend the Infantry Training Battalion (ITB), where you'll learn the skills you need to become an infantry Marine. ITB is an additional 59 days of training that focuses on teaching you how to fight as an infantry Marine.
Skills Learned in ITB
During ITB, you'll learn a variety of skills, including:
- Map reading and navigation
- First aid and combat lifesaving
- Patrolling and reconnaissance
- Combat marksmanship
4. Attend the School of Infantry (SOI)
After completing ITB, you'll attend the School of Infantry (SOI), where you'll learn advanced infantry skills. SOI is an additional 59 days of training that focuses on teaching you how to lead and fight as an infantry Marine.
5. Complete the Marine Corps Combatant Diver (MCCD) Course
To join MARSOC, you'll need to complete the Marine Corps Combatant Diver (MCCD) course, which teaches you how to conduct combat diving operations. The MCCD course is 30 days long and covers topics such as:
- Scuba diving fundamentals
- Underwater navigation
- Combat diving techniques
6. Attend the Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) Assessment and Selection (A&S) Course
The MARSOC A&S course is a 3-week course that assesses your suitability for MARSOC. During the course, you'll be evaluated on your physical and mental abilities, as well as your leadership skills.
7. Complete the MARSOC Operator Training Course
If you're selected for MARSOC, you'll attend the MARSOC Operator Training Course, which teaches you the skills you need to conduct special operations missions. The course is 7 months long and covers topics such as:
- Advanced first aid and combat lifesaving
- Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations
- Advanced patrolling and reconnaissance
Graduating from the MARSOC Operator Training Course
If you graduate from the MARSOC Operator Training Course, you'll be awarded the 0372 Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and will be certified as a MARSOC operator.
MARSOC Image Gallery
What is MARSOC?
+MARSOC is the United States Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command. It is an elite special operations force that conducts a variety of missions, including counterterrorism, direct action, and special reconnaissance.
How do I join MARSOC?
+To join MARSOC, you must first enlist in the Marine Corps and complete the required training. You'll then need to complete the MARSOC Assessment and Selection (A&S) course, followed by the MARSOC Operator Training Course.
What is the MARSOC selection process?
+The MARSOC selection process is a 3-week course that assesses your suitability for MARSOC. During the course, you'll be evaluated on your physical and mental abilities, as well as your leadership skills.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the 7 ways to join MARSOC. Remember, becoming a MARSOC operator requires a high level of physical fitness, mental toughness, and leadership skills. If you're up for the challenge, we encourage you to pursue your goal of joining MARSOC.