Army Basic Combat Training (BCT), commonly referred to as boot camp, typically lasts about 10 weeks
. This 10-week period includes an initial reception week where recruits undergo physical exams, vaccinations, haircuts, and uniform issue before starting the main training
. BCT is divided into four phases-yellow, red, white, and blue-each representing increasing levels of responsibility and training intensity
. The training covers physical fitness, basic soldiering skills, weapons handling, teamwork, and Army values
. For some Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), particularly infantry, recruits attend One Station Unit Training (OSUT), which combines BCT and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in one continuous program lasting about 22 weeks
. AIT for other specialties varies widely in length, from a few weeks to several months, depending on the career path
. In summary:
- Standard Army Basic Combat Training: approximately 10 weeks
- Infantry OSUT (combined BCT + AIT): about 22 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT) length varies by MOS, from 4 weeks to over 7 months
Training locations include Fort Benning (GA), Fort Jackson (SC), Fort Leonard Wood (MO), and Fort Sill (OK)
