Your Comprehensive Guide to Joining the Royal Marines in 2024

Embarking on a journey to become a Royal Marine is a commitment to excellence, resilience, and unparalleled service. Renowned for their rigorous training and elite status, Royal Marines are among the most respected forces in the world. If you're considering taking this challenging yet rewarding path, understanding the current joining process is crucial. This guide outlines each step of the Royal Marines joining process as of 2024, helping you prepare effectively for a successful application.

Eligibility Criteria

Before diving into the application process, ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Age: Must be between 16 and 32 years old at the start of training.
• Nationality: British nationals, Commonwealth citizens, or dual nationals are eligible.
• Education: No formal qualifications are required, but a good level of literacy and numeracy is beneficial.
• Health: Must be in excellent physical and mental health. Medical examinations will assess fitness levels.
• Criminal Record: Certain convictions may disqualify you. A thorough background check is conducted.
• Physical Attributes: Minimum height of 145cm, a maximum Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28, and specific weight requirements based on BMI.
• Tattoos/Piercings: Allowed if not visible in public or deemed offensive.

Step 1: Registering Your Interest

The first step to joining the Royal Marines is to register your interest. This involves submitting an online application through the Royal Navy Careers website. Provide accurate personal information, educational background, and any relevant work experience. This initial registration allows the recruitment team to assess your suitability and guide you through the next stages.

Step 2: Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA)

Once your interest is registered, you'll be invited to take the Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA). This comprehensive test evaluates your cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills through various sections:

• Verbal Reasoning: Understanding and reasoning using concepts framed in words.
• Numerical Reasoning: Ability to handle numerical data and perform calculations.
• Mechanical Comprehension: Understanding of mechanical and physical principles.
• Spatial Awareness: Ability to visualize and manipulate objects in space.

Preparation Tips:

• Practice sample DAA questions available online.
• Improve your reading and comprehension skills.
• Brush up on basic mathematics and mechanical principles.

Step 3: Interview Process

Successful completion of the DAA leads to the interview stage. The interview assesses your motivation, understanding of the Royal Marines' role, and personal attributes. Key areas of evaluation include:

• Motivation: Why you want to join the Royal Marines.
• Resilience: Ability to cope with stress and challenging situations.
• Teamwork: Experience and aptitude for working within a team.
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership skills or potential.

Preparation Tips:

• Reflect on your reasons for joining and be prepared to articulate them clearly.
• Familiarize yourself with the values and missions of the Royal Marines.
• Practice common interview questions and consider conducting mock interviews.

Step 4: Fitness Assessment (PJFA)

Physical fitness is paramount in the Royal Marines selection process. The Fitness Assessment includes:

• Pre-Joining Fitness Assessment (PJFA): Push ups (min. 30), sit ups (min. 40), pull ups (min. 4) and a bleep test (min. 10.8)

Preparation Tips:

• Develop a consistent fitness regimen focusing on running, strength training, and endurance.
• Incorporate interval training and long-distance running to build stamina.
• Practice exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups to enhance muscular strength.

Step 5: Candidate Preparation Course (CPC)

The Candidate Preparation Course (CPC) is a five-day intensive program designed to further evaluate your physical and mental readiness. It includes:

• Extended Physical Testing: Additional fitness challenges to push your limits.
• Team Exercises: Assessing your ability to work effectively within a team under pressure.
• Mental Resilience Tasks: Activities that test your determination and problem-solving skills.

Preparation Tips:

• Maintain peak physical condition leading up to the CPC.
• Develop mental resilience through stress-management techniques.
• Engage in team sports or group activities to enhance teamwork skills.

Step 6: Recruit Orientation Phase (ROP)

Following a successful CPC, you'll enter the Recruit Orientation Phase (ROP), a four-week induction program that introduces you to military life. During ROP, you'll:

• Receive Basic Military Training: Learn fundamental military skills and protocols.
• Adapt to Military Structure: Understand the hierarchy and daily routines of the Royal Marines.
• Begin Building Camaraderie: Form bonds with fellow recruits essential for teamwork.

Preparation Tips:

• Familiarize yourself with basic military terminology and protocols.
• Prepare mentally for a structured and disciplined environment.
• Focus on developing strong interpersonal skills.

Step 7: Commencement of Training

The final step is to commence your formal training, a 32-week program at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) in Lympstone. This phase includes:

1. Individual Skills (Weeks 1-10): Focus on personal fitness, navigation, and survival skills.
2. Team and Section Skills (Weeks 11-15): Develop teamwork, communication, and tactical operations within small units.
3. Troop and Urban Skills (Weeks 16-23): Advanced combat techniques, urban warfare, and consolidation of learned skills.
4. Commando Phase (Weeks 24-32): Intensive training culminating in the completion of the Commando Tests, including speed marches, endurance courses, and amphibious operations.

Training Highlights:

• Assault Courses: Test your physical and mental limits through challenging obstacle courses.
• Speed Marches: Navigate long distances quickly while carrying full combat gear.
• Amphibious Operations: Learn specialized skills for marine-based missions.

Tips for Success

• Stay Committed: The journey is demanding; unwavering dedication is essential.
• Maintain Physical Fitness: Consistent training is crucial for passing fitness assessments and enduring training phases.
• Develop Mental Resilience: Cultivate a strong mindset to overcome challenges and persevere through tough situations.
• Enhance Teamwork Skills: Ability to work seamlessly within a team is vital for both selection and military operations.
• Seek Guidance: Connect with current or former Royal Marines for insights and advice.

Conclusion

Joining the Royal Marines is a formidable endeavor that demands physical prowess, mental fortitude, and unwavering commitment. Understanding the current joining process is the first step towards achieving this prestigious goal. By preparing diligently for each stage—from registering your interest to embarking on intensive training—you can enhance your chances of success and embark on a rewarding career as a Royal Marine Commando.

For more detailed information and to begin your application, visit the Official Royal Navy Careers Page.