How Long Does Army Basic Training Last?

The basic combat training for all Military Occupation Specialty or shortly known as MOS lasts about nine to eleven weeks. In most cases, the basic training will last for ten weeks. During the basic training, a soldier can expect to learn about military life, self-discipline, teamwork, and hand-to-hand combat and basic rifle marksmanship.

The basic training teaches newly enlisted soldiers about military life. It is definitely a challenging period of time. Given the Army basic training graduation rate is about 85 percent, not all enlisted soldiers will find what they were expecting. There is also a possibility of an enlisted soldier failing basic training. Although it seems impossible, about 10 percent of newly enlisted military personnel drop out during the basic training.

What concerns most people who think about joining military are small questions that have simple answers. Here are a few of them.

Do you get paid during basic training?

Yes, you do get paid during basic training. However, you may not get your first paycheck soon. If you start basic training before the 10th of the month, you will get paid on the 15th. If you start after 10th of the month, you won’t get paid until the 1st day of the next month.

Do you get days off during basic training?

No, you do not get days off during training. If you join the church in Sunday, you may avoid your drill instructors though.

Can drill sergeants hit you?

No, drill sergeants don’t hit anyone during basic training. In fact, they don’t even touch you but they will surely come very close to your face which will make you intimidated by them. You should earn the respect of your drill sergeant(s) if you want your basic training to go as easy as possible.

How many hours a day is basic training?

The number of hours you’re going to spend during basic training depends on what’s on that day. Generally, you can expect to spend about 12 to 14 hours every day.