FAQS
Am I eligible to apply? What are the requirements and restraints?
What is the minimum GT score to attend SFRE and SFAS?
Your GT must be 100 or higher for 18 series, for an 18X contract this is not waiverable. Contact a local recruiter or your military education office to re-take the ASVAB. For study material search ASVAB study guide or visit a local library or book store.
There are no Special Forces units in my state; which one should I contact to join?
Find the Special Forces state closest to where you live. You DO NOT need to reside in the state you wish to serve, i.e., you can reside in Georgia and be a member of the Alabama Army National Guard.
I am already SF Qualified or have a SOF Support MOS do I have to live in the state that I join?
No, you don't. All National Guardsmen have the flexibility to join any state with slots for your MOS. However, proximity is encouraged as it allows you to take advantage of short-notice opportunities.
Do I need to possess a security clearance prior to attending SFRE and SFAS?
No, but you must be eligible and possess an interim SECRET clearance to begin the SFQC.
I am an E7 with 13 years TIS and/or 10 months TIG can I attend SFRE?
Possibly, E7’s must have less than 13 years TIS and less than 10 months TIG to attend SFRE and SFAS. No administrative reduction is allowed.
I am a 2LT, OCS Candidate or ROTC Cadet can I attend SFRE?
No, officer applicants must be branch qualified and be either a First Lieutenant promotable to Captain or a Captain with no more than 2 years TIG. However, please reach out to us to discuss your options and seek advice on preparing yourself when you are eligible.
Is there a limit on TIG for an O3, Captain to attend SFRE and SFAS?
Yes, O3’s must have less than 2 years TIG to attend SFRE and SFAS. However, a waiver is available for special circumstances.
Do I need to be Airborne qualified to attend SFRE and SFAS?
No, but you must volunteer for Airborne training and complete Airborne School prior to reporting to the SFQC.
Is there an 18X program in the National Guard?
Yes, National Guard Special Forces does have an 18X program. Click here to learn more about the 18X program.
I am prior service in another military branch. Can I attend SFRE/SFE and SFAS?
Yes, we welcome all branches of the military and work to ensure you have the most streamlined path to SFAS and becoming a Green Beret. There are different scenariors for every branch but we will work with you as best as we can.
How long do I have to enlist for when wanting to transition from Active Duty to National Guard? You have two options depending on how long you have left of IRR time.
If you have at least one year of IRR time you can reenlist under the “Try One” contract. If you have zero break in service, this will extend your health benefits for 6 months.
If you do not have more than 1 year left of IRR time, you will have to sign a 2 or 3 year reenlistment contract.
I am an active duty Marine. Can I attend SFRE and SFAS?
Yes, we have a Marine to Guard program which allows AD Marines to attend SFAS while on AD. Then once SELECTED at SFAS, they can transition to a SF National Guard state and attend the SFQC. Check out this link for more information on our Marine to Guard Program. If you are a Reserve Marine, you are allowed to attend an SFRE while still in the USMC. If successful you would have to transition to the National Guard prior to attending SFAS.
For more specific enlisted and officer requirements visit: Special Forces (army.mil)
Training and Preparation:
How should I train for SFRE and SFAS?
Endurance training will best prepare you for the events at SFRE and SFAS. A large part of the SF Pipeline revolves around rucking and running. You must prepare your body for these events and not take on too much, too quick. Click on this link (SF Physical Training handbook) for training plans developed specifically for SFAS and the SFQC.
What are the stats of a successful candidate at SFRE and SFAS?
There are many factors that go into a SELECTED candidate at SFAS; however, an above average candidate would likely score the following in these gated events:
5 mile run: 37.5minutes (7.5min/mile)
12 mile ruck: 2 hours 30 minutes (12.5min/mile)
Climb a 20’ rope twice using proper leg technique
Swim 50m in full uniform and boots using the combat side stroke technique
10 Dead Hang Pull-Ups (no kipping)