Frequently Asked Questions

  • Your GT must be 110 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • No, but you must be eligible and possess an interim SECRET clearance to begin the SFQC.

  • 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.

  • Yes, O3’s must have less than 2 years TIG to attend SFRE and SFAS.  However, a waiver is available for special circumstances.

  • No, but you must volunteer for Airborne training and complete Airborne School prior to reporting to the SFQC.

  • Yes, National Guard Special Forces does have an 18X program.  Click here to learn more about the 18X program.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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)

  • SFRE/SFEs are conducted several times a year at most National Guard Special Forces States.  If the state of your choice does not have an SFRE/SFE for several months you may be able to attend  in another state and transfer your results; however, please make sure to coordinate this beforehand.  Click here to request information on the next SFRE near you.

  • Yes, in most cases the cadre will provide you an out-briefing with your performance results and ways you can improve.  Most candidates are invited back and expected to improve at their second attempt.

The Special Forces Pipeline

  • 24 days, Gate week, Land Nav week, Team week

  • The length of your time in SFQC will depend on your training MOS. Aside from 18D and 18A a typical length of time spent is 52 weeks.

  • Yes, students attending SFQC are authorized on a Permanent Change of Station Order or PCS.

National Guard Special Forces Lifestyle

Members of the Special Forces Regiment serving in the National Guard are unique. Every individual has their non-military related lives outside of their respective ODAs. With that said, it is a balance. Joining the SF Regiment requires time management, sacrifice, and of course duties and missions that will take you away from home. As far as the common phrase of 1 weekend a month, and 2 weeks a year, that does not entirely encapsulate what it is like to be in 20th or 19th Group. As a member of SF, you will have the added expectations and responsibilities that come with wearing the Green Beret. We are held to a higher standard, and as such, we are required to do more. Enough said.