MEPS is the Military Entrance Processing Station. This is where you will go once you have gone through the initial meetings with your recruiter. At MEPS, you will take the ASVAB, choose your MOS and take a physical. If you pass the ASVAB and physical, you will be able to swear into the military on that same day.
When going to MEPS, it should take a couple of days to get through all the paperwork. Depending upon certain situations regarding your enlistment, you may be there longer or shorter.
Some of the military branches will ask you to head to basic training after you have completed MEPS. Your recruiter will prepare you for this process. Other branches will have you go through MEPS first and then wait until the date you ship to go to basic training or boot camp.
Some things to keep in mind when going to MEPS
- Bring the proper identification with you. This means Social Security card, birth certificates, driver’s license, any paperwork you need to help make MEPS a smooth experience.
- Make sure you get proper rest and relaxation before you take the ASVAB. The higher the score on your ASVAB, the better chance you will have in getting the job you want because more options will be open to you.
- Be on time for your MEPS appointment. Any delay in start time will impact your day in a big way.
- Be respectful and act accordingly while at MEPS. You are entering the military which has a high standard and code of ethics. That means any offensive words, pictures on clothing is not allowed. Earrings and hats are also not allowed inside of MEPS.
- Make sure you dress properly
What Kind of Testing Takes Place at MEPS
When you go to MEPS, you will be asked to take the ASVAB. The ASVAB measures your comprehension and ability in a broad range of career fields.
Each service uses the ASVAB to see where and what jobs you would be a great fit for when joining the military. You can take the ASVAB as well through your high school so if you have done so, please let your recruiter know. That way you will not have to take the test more than once.
You will also take a physical while at MEPS because ensuring you are in good health before you enter the military lifestyle is of the utmost importance. The military is not an easy lifestyle so being healthy and a good physical condition will help you deal with the stress and fast-paced life of the service.
Some of the tests for your physical will include blood, drug and alcohol tests. There may be some simple flexibility balance tests to ensure you have the proper range of motion. Depending upon if you are overweight, you will have a body fat percentage test as well.
If you have a problem or an issue that pops up with one of the tests administered, you may be able to get a waiver and still enter the military. Make sure you let your recruiter know before you go to MEPS of all the conditions that may require waivers on your behalf. Otherwise, you may be disqualified.
What Happens If I Pass Everything
If you pass your physical and ASVAB, there will a counselor who will provide you the jobs you are eligible for and your enlistment agreement.
Before signing or agreeing to anything, make sure you go through all of your options as this is a very important decision to make and something that is very difficult to change while you are in the military. The counselors will be there to help you out during this time, so be sure to ask them for help if you need it. You will also do a final interview, fingerprint and background check and a briefing before you swear into the military.
Meals and Accommodations will be provided for you on behalf of the military but anything extra outside of that will be your responsibility.
Overall, MEPS is a big important piece of your enlistment process. Always lean on your recruiter and others to help you get you to where you want to be in the service.
This is the last step before heading out to training. Just like you prepare for MEPS, you’ll want to prepare for training. Select the branch of service you’ll be joining to see what you can do to begin preparing for the journey that’s ahead.
Prepare for Army basic training
Prepare for Marine boot camp
Prepare for Air Force basic training
Prepare for Navy boot camp
Prepare for Coast Guard boot camp
