Basic Combat Training

In your first step to becoming a Soldier, you’ll build confidence, break barriers, and go beyond what you thought possible. Imagine what you’ll do after.

Break barriers in basic training.

Basic Combat Training, also known as "boot camp," is required of all new enlisted Soldiers to create a strong foundation for their Army experience and future goals. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped with a wealth of skills and knowledge.

Resilience

Confidence

Knowledge

Break barriers in basic training.

Basic Combat Training, also known as "boot camp," is required of all new enlisted Soldiers to create a strong foundation for their Army experience and future goals. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped with a wealth of skills and knowledge.

Resilience

Confidence

Knowledge

Break barriers in basic training.

Basic Combat Training, also known as "boot camp," is required of all new enlisted Soldiers to create a strong foundation for their Army experience and future goals. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped with a wealth of skills and knowledge.

Resilience

Confidence

Knowledge

Break barriers in basic training.

Basic Combat Training, also known as "boot camp," is required of all new enlisted Soldiers to create a strong foundation for their Army experience and future goals. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped with a wealth of skills and knowledge.

Resilience

Confidence

Knowledge

In Basic Training, you’re going to learn discipline… and you’re doing it alongside people you will know the rest of your Army career. – Sgt. 1st Class Jean-Noel Howell, Active Duty

Your 10-week introduction to the Army.

Basic Training consists of four phases over 10 weeks, where you’ll learn about the Army and train to become a Soldier. Once completed, your day-to-day will focus more on what’s required for your specific job, as well as pursuing your personal goals and interests.

Yellow Phase

Weeks 1 – 2

• Learn Army values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage
• Begin physical and tactical military training
• Build confidence and teamwork by navigating obstacle courses and other terrain

Red Phase

Weeks 3 – 4

During the second phase, you'll train to handle weapons and equipment, and learn other hands-on aspects of being a Soldier.

• Begin familiarization and training with your assigned weapon
• Learn Soldier tasks like hand-to-hand combat and life-saving skills
• Practice what you've learned during your first field exercise called The Hammer

White Phase

Weeks 5 – 7

In the third phase, you'll begin training with your rifle and mastering how to work effectively within your small team.

• Expand your skills and understanding of basic rifle marksmanship, maintenance, and target engagement
• Learn how to prioritize multiple targets and further develop hand-to-hand combat skills
• Complete a two-day, two-night field training exercise known as The Anvil

Blue Phase

Weeks 8 – 10

In the last phase, you'll refine and apply everything you've learned so far to complete your final rite of passage from civilian to Soldier.

• Learn how to handle more advanced weaponry, like machine guns and grenades
• Continue basic rifle marksmanship and maneuvering
• Conduct a multiple-day field exercise called The Forge to test what you've learned throughout Basic Training like fitness, Soldier skills, and survival

Soldier firsts

Requirements to join as an enlisted Soldier.

What to expect in basic training.

You’ve likely seen and heard a lot of different things about Basic Training. We’ll help clear up any misconceptions, so you know what to expect going in.

Is Basic Training hard?

Basic Training is challenging and meant to push you to become the best version of yourself. It will help you develop mentally and physically to overcome things you didn't think possible. You'll also realize that the military and Drill Sergeants are not here to break you. Their goal is to build you up, help you find your inner strength, and teach you to succeed in both the Army and everyday life.

Where do you eat while in Basic Training?

Typically, you'll eat in the dining facility (DFAC), which is the Army's version of a chow hall or cafeteria. There may be instances when you'll eat out in the field, in which case meals are brought along. Other times, you might eat pre-packaged Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs).

How long do you train each day of Basic Training?

You'll have a structured schedule with your day starting at 4:30 AM. You'll have 30 minutes to wash up and be in formation by 5:00. From 5:00 to 6:30 AM, you'll do Physical Training (PT). You'll have time for breakfast before changing into your uniform to train with your Drill Sergeants. Lunch is at noon, followed by additional training, before breaking for dinner. In the evening, you'll clean the barracks, then enjoy some personal time before lights out at 9:00 PM.

Where do you sleep during Basic Training?

Sleeping arrangements during Basic Training may differ depending on where you're at. Generally, you'll either bunk in a bay containing about 40 people or in a small room with three to six others. You can expect to get between seven and eight hours of sleep.

Perception Vs Reality

I don't think I'll make it through Basic Training About 90% of candidates complete Basic Training and become Soldiers

TRAIN TO BECOME AN OFFICER.

While enlisted Soldiers attend Basic Training, those pursuing commissioned Officership go through a different program called Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC), which includes Basic Training, to help them prepare for the Army.