If you're an Enlisted Soldier applying for the Active Guard Reserve, you must:

• Be discharged from your component of the Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard
• Be at least 18 and younger than 55
• Be in ranks SPC through SFC
• Have less than 15 years of active Federal service
• Be eligible for reenlistment or extension
• Not have been relieved from any duty assignment for cause in the 36 months prior to your application
• Have not been involuntarily removed from Active Duty
• Meet the medical fitness standards for retention prior to entry
• Be medically certified as drug free, HIV negative and not pregnant
• Pass a Defense Central Investigative Index (DCII)

If you're an Officer or Warrant Officer applying for the Active Guard Reserve, you must:

• Be pending discharge from your component of the Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard
• Be in ranks 2LT through MAJ or W01 through CW4
• Have completed the Officer Basic Course if less than five years in rank (Lieutenant or Captain)
• Have completed the Captain's Career Course if more than five years in rank (Captain or Major)
• Have less than 15 years of active Federal service (waiver may be granted)
• Have not received a referred Officer Evaluation Report in the 12-month period prior to the date of application or entry
• Meet the medical fitness standards for retention prior to entry
• Be medically certified as drug free, HIV negative and not pregnant
• Pass a Defense Central Investigative Index (DCII)

You'll receive the full-time pay and benefits as Army Soldiers, including:

• Medical benefits
• Commissary/PX benefits
• Full retirement after 20 years of active Federal service
• Education and tuition assistance available through the Army Continuing Education System and various other programs administered through the Department of Veterans Affairs

The Army Guard Reserve also offers these unique opportunities:

• 6000 training locations
• Tour stability (three years Time on Station is the current average)
• Professional development at active Army Schools
• Excellent promotion opportunities

If you are accepted into the Army Guard Reserve, you'll be brought up to speed in a one-week orientation course called AGR Entry Training. (This does not apply to Recruiters.)

You'll receive instruction on these AGR and Army Reserve topics:

• Organizational Overview of the U.S. Army Reserve
• Education Benefits
• Military Appearance, Customs and Courtesies
• Personnel Files and Awards
• Family Services and Benefits
• Army Reserve Maintenance and Supply
• Army Drug and Alcohol Program
• Disciplinary Actions, Ethics, Fraternization and Prevention of Sexual Harassment
• Training Management
• Physical Security
• Mobilization Planning
• Health Benefits
• Army Weight Control Program and Physical Fitness