The British Army is now accepting applications from Commonwealth citizens, including Nigerians, to join its ranks starting today, August 19th, 2024. The recruitment window will remain open until August 26th, 2024.
Positions available include roles such as musician, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineer, Royal Engineers Technician and Tradesman, and paratrooper. This recruitment phase highlights the ongoing and significant contributions of Commonwealth soldiers to the British Army.
Applicants must ensure their applications are connected to the Recruit Bounty Referral Scheme, except for those applying as musicians, who must meet specific musical standards detailed on the Army Musicians page.
Medical Screening
A key part of the recruitment process involves medical screening, particularly for Sickle Cell traits, common among certain populations, including those from Commonwealth countries. While having the Sickle Cell Trait does not disqualify candidates, those at higher risk will need to undergo additional testing before participating in entry fitness tests. This step is taken to ensure the safety and well-being of all recruits.
Eligibility Criteria
Soldiers:
- Candidates must be at least 16 years old, with the application process beginning at 15 years and 7 months, and assessments starting at 15 years and 9 months.
- Applicants under 17 years and 6 months will attend the Army Foundation College before starting standard entry training for Junior Soldiers.
- Candidates must enlist before reaching 36 years of age.
Officers:
- Candidates must be between 18 and 29 years old.
- Higher age limits apply for specialist roles like doctors, with exceptions for those over 30 on a case-by-case basis.
- Candidates need 35 ALIS points from 7 subjects, including a minimum grade of C/4 in English Language, Maths, and either Science or a foreign language.
- Additionally, they require 72 UCAS Tariff points from 3 subjects.
Fitness and Lifestyle Requirements
All applicants must pass fitness tests, including the Multistage Fitness Test (Beep Test), Seated Ball Throw, and Mid Thigh Pull. The Army provides guidance on achieving the necessary fitness levels and emphasizes a healthy lifestyle, encouraging recruits to quit smoking and maintain a balanced diet to meet BMI (Body Mass Index) requirements.
Tattoos and Piercings
Tattoos are acceptable under specific guidelines: they must not be offensive, obscene, or visible in a passport photo. Hand and neck tattoos are allowed, but head and face tattoos are not. Piercings that alter appearance, such as large flesh tunnels, may disqualify applicants, and all jewelry must be removed during physical activities.
Criminal Convictions
The British Army takes a rehabilitative approach to criminal convictions. While certain convictions may be ‘spent’ after a rehabilitation period, applicants must disclose any unspent convictions. Honesty is crucial, as hiding convictions could lead to prosecution later.
Army Cadet Force
For those not yet old enough to join the Army, the Army Cadet Force offers an opportunity to engage in military-themed activities, sports, and outdoor adventures, helping cadets develop survival skills, participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and earn additional qualifications.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications are open only from August 19th, 2024, to August 26th, 2024. Applications outside this period will not be considered. Candidates should be prepared to travel to the UK for further assessments in October and November 2024, with basic training scheduled to begin between January and March 2025.
For more details and to apply, interested candidates should visit the official British Army recruitment page.