Special Forces Test Requirements and Standards
To become a member of the Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, one must undergo a rigorous selection process and meet specific requirements and standards. The selection process, known as the Qualification Course, is designed to test a candidate’s physical and mental abilities, as well as their skills and knowledge.
Basic Requirements
Before applying to the Special Forces, candidates must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between the ages of 20 and 35
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Score a minimum of 260 on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)
- Have a minimum GT score of 110 on the Army Alpha Test
- Be a volunteer for airborne training
- Have a valid security clearance
Physical Fitness Test
The APFT is a critical component of the selection process. Candidates must score a minimum of 260 points out of a possible 300, with a minimum of 80 points in each event. The test consists of:
- Push-ups: 30-40 reps
- Sit-ups: 30-40 reps
- 2-mile run: 13-15 minutes
Note: Candidates who score below 260 points will not be considered for selection.
Selection Process
The selection process, also known as the Qualification Course, is a 62-day course that tests a candidate’s physical and mental abilities. The course consists of several phases:
- Phase 1: Initial Screening (1 week)
- Phase 2: Small Unit Tactics (4 weeks)
- Phase 3: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training (1 week)
- Phase 4: Language Training (4 weeks)
- Phase 5: Unconventional Warfare Training (4 weeks)
Phase 1: Initial Screening
During this phase, candidates undergo a series of tests and evaluations to assess their physical and mental abilities. These tests include:
- Swim assessment
- Obstacle course
- Ruck march
- Land navigation
- First aid test
Note: Candidates who fail to meet the standards during this phase will be dropped from the course.
Phase 2: Small Unit Tactics
During this phase, candidates learn and practice small unit tactics, including:
- Squad movements
- Patrols
- Ambushes
- Raids
- Defense
Note: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in these skills to progress to the next phase.
Phase 3: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training
During this phase, candidates learn how to survive and evade capture in hostile territory. They also learn how to resist interrogation and escape from captivity.
Note: This phase is highly classified and candidates are not allowed to disclose any information about it.
Phase 4: Language Training
During this phase, candidates learn a foreign language, such as Spanish, French, or Arabic. They must demonstrate proficiency in the language to progress to the next phase.
Note: Candidates who fail to meet the language proficiency standards will be dropped from the course.
Phase 5: Unconventional Warfare Training
During this phase, candidates learn unconventional warfare tactics, including:
- Guerrilla warfare
- Counterinsurgency
- Special reconnaissance
Note: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in these skills to graduate from the course.
Graduation
Candidates who complete the Qualification Course and meet the requirements and standards are awarded the Special Forces Tab and become members of the Special Forces.
Note: The selection process is highly competitive, and only a small percentage of candidates make it through the course.
What is the average dropout rate for the Special Forces Qualification Course?
+
The average dropout rate for the Special Forces Qualification Course is around 70-80%.
What is the minimum GT score required for Special Forces selection?
+The minimum GT score required for Special Forces selection is 110.
How long is the Special Forces Qualification Course?
+The Special Forces Qualification Course is 62 days long.
In conclusion, becoming a member of the Special Forces requires a significant amount of physical and mental toughness, as well as a strong commitment to serving one’s country. The selection process is highly competitive, and only a small percentage of candidates make it through the course. Those who do, however, are rewarded with the opportunity to serve in one of the most elite special operations forces in the world.
