How to Become a Marine Sergeant in the Marine Corps

Promotions in the marines are based on composite scores and time served.

To be considered for a position as a sergeant in the marines you must first be a corporal in the marines. You will start out as a private and continue to be promoted to private 1st class, lance corporal and then corporal. Once you have achieved this promotion, start working on qualifying for a sergeant position. Limited sergeant positions are available so you will need to do exemplary work to stand out from other candidates.

Instructions

1. Hold your position as a corporal for at least 12 months. You need to have 12 months "time in grade" before you will be considered for promotion to sergeant.

2. Earn as many points as possible for your composite score by doing your job well, improving your rifle range scores and acting professionally. The more points you have the more likely it will be that you get promoted. Points are awarded in several categories including "general military performance," "conduct marks" and "duty proficiency marks."

3. Earn bonus points by taking military training courses, college courses, taking on extra assignments and recruiting new marines.

4. Continue to work hard as corporal. Every three months your composite score will be generated and if your score is high enough, and there is a position available, you will be considered for a promotion.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you are a sergeant, take the sergeant's course to help you improve your skills in the area and start you in the right directions for another promotion.

• Limited sergeant positions are available so a promotion cannot be guaranteed.

References

• Military: Marine Corps Enlisted Promotions Systems --- Sergeant
• Marine Corp Times: Enlisted Professional Military Education: Marine Corps