The British Army is inviting citizens from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, to join its respected force starting today, August 19, 2024.
The application period will be open until August 26, 2024.
They are looking for people to fill roles such as musicians, engineers, technicians, tradesmen, and paratroopers.
This recruitment highlights the important contributions made by Commonwealth soldiers in the British Army.
Applicants need to be referred by current British Army members through the Recruit Bounty Referral Scheme, except those applying as musicians.
Musicians must meet specific music standards, detailed on the Army Musicians page.
Medical Screening
The recruitment process includes medical screening for Sickle Cell traits, common in some populations, including Commonwealth countries.
Having the Sickle Cell Trait doesn’t disqualify you, but higher-risk candidates must take a blood test before fitness tests.
This helps keep everyone safe and healthy.
Eligibility criteria
Soldiers
- Must be at least 16 years old. Applications can start at 15 years and 7 months, and assessments at 15 years and 9 months.
- If you’re under 17 years and 6 months, you’ll go to the Army Foundation College before main training.
- Must join before turning 36.
Officers
- Must be between 18 and 29 years old.
- Higher age limits apply for special roles like doctors; exceptions made for some over 30s.
- Need 35 ALIS points from 7 subjects, with grades C/4 in English, Maths, and either Science or a foreign language.
- Also need 72 UCAS points from 3 subjects.
Fitness and lifestyle requirements
Applicants must pass fitness tests: the Beep Test, Seated Ball Throw, and Mid-Thigh Pull.
The Army advises how to get fit and stay healthy. They encourage quitting smoking and eating balanced diets to meet BMI requirements.
Tattoos and piercings
Tattoos are okay if they’re not offensive, obscene, or visible in a passport photo. Hand and neck tattoos are allowed, but not on the head or face.
Piercings that change your look, like large flesh tunnels, may disqualify you. Remove all jewelry during physical activities.
Criminal convictions
The British Army allows time for convictions to become ‘spent’ but requires disclosure of any unspent convictions.
Be honest, as hiding convictions can cause issues later.
Joining the Army Cadet Force
If too young to join the Army, consider joining the Army Cadet Force for military-themed activities, sports, and adventures.
Cadets learn survival skills, join the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and gain extra qualifications.
Application process and timeline
The application window runs strictly from August 19, 2024, to August 26, 2024. Applications outside this window won’t be accepted.
You must be ready to travel to the UK in October and November 2024 for further assessments. Basic training starts between January and March 2025.
For more information and to apply, visit the official British Army recruitment page.