How to Become an Army Corporal

The Army corporal has a long and distinguished history. It is the bridging rank between a private and an NCO, or non-commissioned officer. Although it is not as common today, there are still ways to achieve the rank of corporal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Enlist in the United States Army. When you are choosing a career field, consider one that teaches you leadership skills. While not vital, it will give you a better chance of getting to the rank of corporal.
2. Learn the difference between the ranks of the enlisted scale. There are two different ranks as an E-4; the corporal and the specialist. The most common career progression is as a specialist.
3. Sharpen your leadership skills. A specialist and a corporal have the same pay grade, but corporals are in leadership positions. They have established that they are capable to lead.
4. Speak with your chain of command about your desire to become a corporal. They are the ones that must put in the recommendation.
5. Meet all requirements for promotion to E-4. You must have 26 months in service and six months in grade as an E-3. You can get this waived, however, to 18 months in service and three months in grade as an E-3.
6. Keep expanding your leadership and job skills. After you are wearing the stripes of a corporal, continue to show that you have earned them. This will help you make it to the next rank of E-5/Sergeant.

Tips & Warnings

• Field units have more opportunities for soldiers to make the rank of corporal. Although you have no control over where the Department of the Army sends you, keep this in mind when making your wish list for assignments.

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