9 answers
ethan
Student
Pennsylvania, PA
2
Questions
Updated
2150 views
Could i transfer from one branch of the military to another.
I would like to go to the military and would like to finish my first few years and then go to college and then would like to go to another branch.
9 answers
Jason Windish
maintenance mechanic
29
Answers
Newington, Connecticut
Updated
Jason’s Answer
you can usually transfer and re-up after a few years out but tbh most people do not. the best bet is to get a guaranteed specialty and take college courses while your in. PLEASE BE CAREFUL WHEN YOU PICK YOUR SPECIALTY and make sure your gonna get it. DO NOT GO IN OPEN. i was in the air-force i knew exactly what job i was gonna get and i did that job. i knew so many guy's that went in open, thought they were gonna get a good electronics specialty because they did good on the asvab for electronics, then they were assigned to be a cop or admin for 4 years. i also knew navy guys that were told they were gonna have a certain job, were sent to A-school and got trained for that job, then had to be a general ship worker for 2 years until they got to switch to what they were trained for. the military is cool just make sure you know exactly what your signing up for.
Nathanael LoBosco
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician
9
Answers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Updated
Nathanael’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
Yes, you can definitely switch branches in the military. I have a friend who started as a Marine, then moved to the Air Force, and is now serving in the Army. It's all about finding the right pace, lifestyle, and opportunities that each branch can offer you. However, be aware that switching branches may involve some drawbacks. You might face a demotion, have to retake basic training, or attend another AIT each time you make a switch. Ultimately, you need to decide if these changes are worth it based on your personal goals.
To switch branches, you'll need to complete your current contract before enlisting in a different branch. You're allowed a break of up to six months in service before you're automatically demoted.
Regarding your plan to pursue college while serving, I think it's a great idea. There are several Tuition Assistance programs and FAFSA options available that won't require using your GI Bill. By taking advantage of these programs, grants, and scholarships, you can earn money and get paid to take online college courses. Saving your GI Bill for significant others or children down the road if needed.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Yes, you can definitely switch branches in the military. I have a friend who started as a Marine, then moved to the Air Force, and is now serving in the Army. It's all about finding the right pace, lifestyle, and opportunities that each branch can offer you. However, be aware that switching branches may involve some drawbacks. You might face a demotion, have to retake basic training, or attend another AIT each time you make a switch. Ultimately, you need to decide if these changes are worth it based on your personal goals.
To switch branches, you'll need to complete your current contract before enlisting in a different branch. You're allowed a break of up to six months in service before you're automatically demoted.
Regarding your plan to pursue college while serving, I think it's a great idea. There are several Tuition Assistance programs and FAFSA options available that won't require using your GI Bill. By taking advantage of these programs, grants, and scholarships, you can earn money and get paid to take online college courses. Saving your GI Bill for significant others or children down the road if needed.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Mahi Patel
Student Advisor and Dental
99
Answers
Davie, Florida
Updated
Mahi’s Answer
Transferring from one branch of the military to another is possible in some cases, but it depends on several factors, including the policies of the specific branches involved and the needs of the military at the time. Here are some general considerations:
Inter-Service Transfers:
Some branches of the military may allow inter-service transfers, but the process and eligibility criteria can vary. It's essential to check with the personnel or career counselor within your current branch to inquire about the specific policies.
Skill Compatibility:
The military may consider your current skills, training, and experience when evaluating a transfer. If your skills are in high demand in the branch you want to transfer to, it may increase the likelihood of approval.
Rank and Time in Service:
The rank you currently hold and the amount of time you have served can impact your ability to transfer. Some branches may have specific requirements regarding rank and time in service for inter-service transfers.
Health and Physical Fitness:
Your health and physical fitness will be considered, as different branches may have varying standards. You may need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet the requirements of the branch you want to transfer to.
Approval Process:
Transfers between branches typically require approval from both your current and desired branches. This involves coordination between the personnel offices of each branch.
Voluntary vs. Involuntary Transfers:
In some cases, transfers may be initiated voluntarily by the service member, while in other cases, they may be initiated by the military based on its needs.
Availability of Open Positions:
The branch you want to transfer to must have open positions that match your skills and qualifications.
It's crucial to note that while transfers between branches are possible, they are not guaranteed, and each case is evaluated individually. If you are considering transferring, start by discussing your intentions with your current chain of command and reaching out to the career counselors or personnel offices of both branches for guidance on the specific requirements and procedures.
Inter-Service Transfers:
Some branches of the military may allow inter-service transfers, but the process and eligibility criteria can vary. It's essential to check with the personnel or career counselor within your current branch to inquire about the specific policies.
Skill Compatibility:
The military may consider your current skills, training, and experience when evaluating a transfer. If your skills are in high demand in the branch you want to transfer to, it may increase the likelihood of approval.
Rank and Time in Service:
The rank you currently hold and the amount of time you have served can impact your ability to transfer. Some branches may have specific requirements regarding rank and time in service for inter-service transfers.
Health and Physical Fitness:
Your health and physical fitness will be considered, as different branches may have varying standards. You may need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet the requirements of the branch you want to transfer to.
Approval Process:
Transfers between branches typically require approval from both your current and desired branches. This involves coordination between the personnel offices of each branch.
Voluntary vs. Involuntary Transfers:
In some cases, transfers may be initiated voluntarily by the service member, while in other cases, they may be initiated by the military based on its needs.
Availability of Open Positions:
The branch you want to transfer to must have open positions that match your skills and qualifications.
It's crucial to note that while transfers between branches are possible, they are not guaranteed, and each case is evaluated individually. If you are considering transferring, start by discussing your intentions with your current chain of command and reaching out to the career counselors or personnel offices of both branches for guidance on the specific requirements and procedures.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Ethan, thanks for your interest in serving the military and for reaching out with your question. As a Gulf War Army Vet, I appreciate your desire to serve our country. I've spoken to some fellow veterans, and they've confirmed that switching from one military branch to another is possible, but it's subject to certain conditions and a formal process.
Your ability to switch branches can depend on your current contract, your specialty, and the needs of the branch you want to join. A friend of mine switched from the Army to the Marines after the Gulf War. He mentioned that while it's not guaranteed, it's doable for those who meet the requirements. If you want to switch branches, you'll need to talk to your superiors and follow the procedures set by both your current and desired branches. He also mentioned that his commanding officer initially tried to block his transfer because of its impact on the team.
Remember, switching branches might require you to complete any remaining duties from your initial contract. It could also affect your career growth and benefits. As you plan your military career with the intention of pursuing higher education later, think about how your choice of branch and potential transfer aligns with your future goals.
I advise you to get more information from recruiters from the branches you're interested in. This will help you make an informed decision about your military career. I also suggest talking to more than one recruiter from each branch to compare their offerings. This is important because the information they provide might vary based on your chosen specialty or job. After talking to the second recruiter, feel free to share what the first one told you and see how they respond.
Your ability to switch branches can depend on your current contract, your specialty, and the needs of the branch you want to join. A friend of mine switched from the Army to the Marines after the Gulf War. He mentioned that while it's not guaranteed, it's doable for those who meet the requirements. If you want to switch branches, you'll need to talk to your superiors and follow the procedures set by both your current and desired branches. He also mentioned that his commanding officer initially tried to block his transfer because of its impact on the team.
Remember, switching branches might require you to complete any remaining duties from your initial contract. It could also affect your career growth and benefits. As you plan your military career with the intention of pursuing higher education later, think about how your choice of branch and potential transfer aligns with your future goals.
I advise you to get more information from recruiters from the branches you're interested in. This will help you make an informed decision about your military career. I also suggest talking to more than one recruiter from each branch to compare their offerings. This is important because the information they provide might vary based on your chosen specialty or job. After talking to the second recruiter, feel free to share what the first one told you and see how they respond.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
202
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
What an interesting question, Ethan. What is driving your question? If it is different types of training, you may be able to get that from the same branch.
I don't have personal experience, but from my research, it seems that it is possible, but not easy (see first two links below). The most straightforward route would be an early discharge from your current branch and acceptance into the new branch.
If you join the military first, you may be able to get your college tuition (and even some related finances) paid by your branch (see link below). If you stay in in your current branch, you continue to accrue benefits. Plus, after several years, you may develop relationships that you value. (At least I hope you do.) These may be reasons to stay with the same branch.
Whatever you decide, good luck!
Read about Air Force policy - https://www.afpc.af.mil/Career-Management/IST/
Read about process - https://www.militaryspot.com/career/changing-branches
Read about military financing of education - https://soldierforlife.army.mil/Education-Toolkit/Paying-for-Your-Education
I don't have personal experience, but from my research, it seems that it is possible, but not easy (see first two links below). The most straightforward route would be an early discharge from your current branch and acceptance into the new branch.
If you join the military first, you may be able to get your college tuition (and even some related finances) paid by your branch (see link below). If you stay in in your current branch, you continue to accrue benefits. Plus, after several years, you may develop relationships that you value. (At least I hope you do.) These may be reasons to stay with the same branch.
Whatever you decide, good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Traig Hall
Client Executive
1
Answer
San Diego, California
Updated
Traig’s Answer
Hello Ethan,
I'm acquainted with a handful of individuals who have embarked on this journey. My experience in the Marine Corps has allowed me to meet several people who have made the transition to the Army. Nonetheless, it's crucial to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages that come with beginning your military career as a Marine:
Advantage: Completing basic training in the Marine Corps has its perks. One of them is that if you decide to switch to another military branch later, you won't have to undergo their basic training. However, if you're transitioning from a different branch into the Marine Corps, you'll be required to complete Marine basic training.
Disadvantage: While it's not impossible, transitioning to the Air Force after serving as a Marine can be quite challenging. This is largely due to the significant cultural differences between the two branches.
I'm acquainted with a handful of individuals who have embarked on this journey. My experience in the Marine Corps has allowed me to meet several people who have made the transition to the Army. Nonetheless, it's crucial to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages that come with beginning your military career as a Marine:
Advantage: Completing basic training in the Marine Corps has its perks. One of them is that if you decide to switch to another military branch later, you won't have to undergo their basic training. However, if you're transitioning from a different branch into the Marine Corps, you'll be required to complete Marine basic training.
Disadvantage: While it's not impossible, transitioning to the Air Force after serving as a Marine can be quite challenging. This is largely due to the significant cultural differences between the two branches.
Norman S. Stahl, PhD
Retired from Higher Ed in 2014 / Retired from USMC in 1988
2
Answers
Fresno, California
Updated
Norman S.’s Answer
What you ask should not be a problem. I assume that since you want to go to college after your first enlistment you would want to come back in as an officer. You would be an enlisted person in Branch One and an Officer in Branch Two. For example, you would serve as an enlisted Marine and a Navy Officer - two separate contracts.
I am a retired officer of Marines with prior enlisted service in the Corps so the steps I outline below reflect my bias.
Enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps for 4 years active service.
Use your GI bill to help pay for college
Look for a college or university with an NROTC Progam and apply for that program.
Once completed you can take your commission in either the Navy or the Marine Corps.
I am a retired officer of Marines with prior enlisted service in the Corps so the steps I outline below reflect my bias.
Norman S. recommends the following next steps:
Eric Hopkins, MHA
United States Navy Talent Scout
21
Answers
Racine, Wisconsin
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hello Ethan,
Yes you can. It’s called an interservice transfer. Though I need a bit more details of your goal here. But, after you finish your first contract, you can use the GI Bill to pay for your college degree, however if you do, you’ll have to apply for a new contract instead of doing the interservice transfer if you aren’t associated with the other branch anymore.
Yes you can. It’s called an interservice transfer. Though I need a bit more details of your goal here. But, after you finish your first contract, you can use the GI Bill to pay for your college degree, however if you do, you’ll have to apply for a new contract instead of doing the interservice transfer if you aren’t associated with the other branch anymore.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3844
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Ethan,
Transferring from one military branch to another is indeed feasible. This procedure is often referred to as a "branch transfer" or "service transfer." However, the criteria and prerequisites for such transfers can vary, influenced by factors like your current rank, service record, and the specific branches involved.
For a successful branch transfer, consider these practical steps:
1. Ascertain Your Eligibility: Investigate the specific prerequisites for transferring between the branches you're considering. Each branch may have unique criteria like service duration, performance records, and physical fitness levels.
2. Choose Your Preferred Branch: Study the various military branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) to identify the one that best suits your career aspirations and interests.
3. Consult a Military Counselor or Recruiter: Seek advice from a counselor or recruiter from both your current branch and the one you're considering transferring to. They can offer valuable insights into the process, eligibility criteria, and potential hurdles.
4. Apply for Transfer: Fill out the required forms and adhere to the procedures set by both your current branch and the one you're transferring to. This might involve submitting an application, getting approval from your commanding officer, and undergoing a background check.
5. Await Approval: The transfer process may take several months, depending on the branches involved and the number of vacancies in your preferred branch. Stay patient and promptly respond to any requests for further information or documentation.
6. Finalize the Transition Process: Once your transfer is approved, you'll need to complete a transition process. This may involve attending a military occupational specialty (MOS) or rating course, finishing any necessary training, and potentially relocating your duty station.
Bear in mind that a branch transfer isn't guaranteed. It relies heavily on your eligibility, the specific branches involved, and the availability of positions in your preferred branch. Thorough research and careful planning are crucial to ensure a seamless transition.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Transferring from one military branch to another is indeed feasible. This procedure is often referred to as a "branch transfer" or "service transfer." However, the criteria and prerequisites for such transfers can vary, influenced by factors like your current rank, service record, and the specific branches involved.
For a successful branch transfer, consider these practical steps:
1. Ascertain Your Eligibility: Investigate the specific prerequisites for transferring between the branches you're considering. Each branch may have unique criteria like service duration, performance records, and physical fitness levels.
2. Choose Your Preferred Branch: Study the various military branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) to identify the one that best suits your career aspirations and interests.
3. Consult a Military Counselor or Recruiter: Seek advice from a counselor or recruiter from both your current branch and the one you're considering transferring to. They can offer valuable insights into the process, eligibility criteria, and potential hurdles.
4. Apply for Transfer: Fill out the required forms and adhere to the procedures set by both your current branch and the one you're transferring to. This might involve submitting an application, getting approval from your commanding officer, and undergoing a background check.
5. Await Approval: The transfer process may take several months, depending on the branches involved and the number of vacancies in your preferred branch. Stay patient and promptly respond to any requests for further information or documentation.
6. Finalize the Transition Process: Once your transfer is approved, you'll need to complete a transition process. This may involve attending a military occupational specialty (MOS) or rating course, finishing any necessary training, and potentially relocating your duty station.
Bear in mind that a branch transfer isn't guaranteed. It relies heavily on your eligibility, the specific branches involved, and the availability of positions in your preferred branch. Thorough research and careful planning are crucial to ensure a seamless transition.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
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