How to Join Canadian Army – Requirements, Salaries, Application

You are on the right track if you are looking for reliable information on how to join the Canadian army. This article will enlighten you on the requirements and other important information you need to start your application.

Undoubtedly, the Canadian army is the land component of the Canadian Armed Forces and its most significant element. As a result, the Canadian army produces well-trained, well-equipped, well-led soldiers and is ready for operations at home and abroad.

Our soldiers protect Canadians and their interests in several important ways. Find out more about the Canadian army.

Interestingly, in 2021, Canada was ranked 21 of 140 out of the countries considered for the annual GFP review. It holds a PwrIndx* score of 0.3956 (a score of 0.0000 is considered ‘perfect’).

Here we will guide you on how to join the Canadian army and also know the requirements needed to apply.

What are the Roles of the Canadian Army?

The army protects Canadians and their interests by:

• Defending Canadian territory.
• Maintaining Canada’s sovereignty by providing land surveillance and combat-ready forces.
• Contributing to the collective defense of North America.
• Assisting provincial and other authorities with natural disasters, including floods, forest fires, storms, earthquakes, and other emergencies.
• Providing armed and unarmed assistance to civil authorities when needed to maintain public order and security.
• Supporting Canadian interests abroad by delivering forces to the UN, NATO, and other operations involving more than two nations, including serving as peacekeepers and providing humanitarian assistance.

What are the requirements to join the Canadian army?

Moreover, before joining the Canadian army, you must meet specific educational requirements before proceeding with your application.

• Firstly, you must be a Canadian citizen or have authorization to work in Canada (such as a permanent resident status).
• Secondly, you must be at least 18 (17 years old with parental consent).
• Thirdly, for the rest of Canada, you must have completed at least Grade 10 or Secondary IV in Québec or grade 10 education. If you wish to join the Forces as an officer, you must have or be working toward a Bachelor’s Degree.
• Furthermore, Submit an application
• Fill out reliability screening forms (background check)
• Complete an aptitude test
• Complete a medical exam
• Interview with a military career counselor.

Steps to join the Canadian army

There are five primary steps in the application process. Each step requires your input and dedication. First, ensure you are prepared and promptly provide all the necessary documents.

#1. Submit your application

You will need to present original copies of your birth certificate, government-issued photo ID, transcripts from your highest level of education, proof of trade qualifications, professional licenses, and other forms. In addition, you need to present all overseas education with a Canadian equivalency from the Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada.

 #2. Reliability screening

You will fill out reliability screening forms. This ensures you are trustworthy with sensitive information. The Canadian Forces will verify all the documents you submit to be completely honest when filling out the required forms.

 #3. Aptitude test

You will take an aptitude test to determine which military occupations fit you best. Preparation is critical, so ensure you are well rested, healthy, on time, and careful with your answers. You will be tested on verbal skills, spatial ability, and problem-solving. It will take approximately 60 minutes to complete a series of three Canadian Forces aptitude tests. The following practice aptitude test will provide an example of the style and structure you will experience when you write the actual test at a Recruitment Center near you.

You will also complete a personality inventory which provides information on your characteristics and qualities.

 #4. Medical exam

You will then take a two-part medical exam. First, there is a questionnaire on your medical history, including specific information on your medication. Then the medical staff will conduct a physical exam to measure your height and weight and evaluate your vision, color perception, and hearing. The second step is a medical file review to determine any limitations that will affect your training and career.

 #5. Interview

The next step is an interview with a military career counselor; it is your official job interview and a significant step. The application process is very competitive, and you will be asked questions about your work history, knowledge of the Canadian Forces, and understanding of the job you selected.

Education And Training in the Canadian Army

The Canadian army recognizes that education is the best investment an organization can make toward the development of its members and has several paid education plans for college, university, and graduate-level programs.

A modernized training and education platform ensures soldiers receive the training they need at each step of their careers. Education within the Canadian Army does not focus only on the military application of job-specific roles but also on marketable skills that can prepare a member for life outside the military.

Canadian Armed Forces members and Department of National Defense employees have access to the Defense Learning Network, which houses technologically advanced professional development tools, courses, and training.

What are the benefits of joining the Canadian army?

A career in the Canadian Forces has many benefits that other occupations, even law enforcement, do not offer.

#1. Medical, Dental, and Vision Care benefits

You and your family will receive health and dental coverage throughout your career. In addition, if you enroll as a part-time member, you may also benefit from medical and dental care during specified periods, depending on your duty status.

#2. Vacation

As a full-time member, you will start with 20 paid vacation days per year. These can typically be scheduled around training and operational requirements. Besides, the vacation time will increase throughout your career to a maximum of 30 days. If you enroll as a part-time member, you will receive one paid vacation day for each 15 consecutive calendar days.

#3. Maternity and Parental Leave

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) offers maternity and parental leave benefits to spend time with your newest family member with 93% of your regular salary.

#4. Retirement

Our pension plans provide you peace of mind for years to come. Whether you are joining full-time or part-time, you can rest assured that you can retire with a pension.

Thinking ahead to the future, you can retire with a full pension after 25 years with the CAF. For a 20-year-old, that means you can retire at age 45. This means you have lots of time to start a new career or settle down and enjoy retirement.

Top 10 Contemporary Film Schools in Canada

What is the expected salary to join the Canadian army?

When you join the Canadian army, you will enjoy many benefits. Some of these benefits include:

Competitive Salary

You are entitled to a competitive salary. Your skills, knowledge, experience, and training can impact your starting salary. As a new direct entry recruit, you could earn anywhere from $35,820 to $62,424 annually while completing basic training.

Once you are fully trained for your chosen occupation, your salary will continue to increase based on your time in the military, rank, and acquired skills. Starting salaries are based on equivalent careers for entry-level positions within the private sector. The benefits of continuous professional development, training, healthcare, and pension from the moment you enroll separate the CAF from every other private sector opportunity.

Paid Education

If you enroll through one of our paid education plans, you will receive at least $20,000 while you complete your paid education. Depending on your enrollment plan, this could be significantly more. Your pay also increases once you graduate.

Signing Bonus

Some of our featured occupations offer a signing bonus. To be eligible for a signing bonus, you must meet the specific criteria for the work. These criteria may be different for each occupation. Therefore, it is recommended that you speak to a recruiter who can help you estimate the recruitment allowance you could be entitled to.

Advantages of joining the Canadian army

When you join the Canadian army, the skills you will gain are sought-after once your contract is over. After you leave basic training, you can take advantage of courses and training possibilities.

The technical and analytical skills you acquire during your time in the Forces can be transferred to the civilian world.

Your skills could be used for a specific function or career, like intelligence or even plumbing and heating technicians depending upon your job choice.

A military career is an excellent choice if you have struggled to find work in your area. In addition, the Canadian army offers regular pay, which is a relief when you cannot find employment.

Mission and Vision of the Canadian Army

Mission

The Canadian army will posture for concurrent operations by generating combat-effective, multi-purpose land forces to meet Canada’s defense objectives.

Vision

As part of the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian army will be a professional and integrated force achieving operational excellence at home and abroad. In contrast, working alongside government colleagues, key allies, and partners, and a responsive force that operates among populations to deliver decisive land power in achieving Canadian defense objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join the Canadian army as a foreigner?

If you are interested in joining the Canadian army as a foreigner, you first must become a Canadian citizen. Once you obtain citizenship, complete the online application and mail the required documents. Then, with patience and dedication, you can become part of the Canadian army even if you were not born in Canada.

What is the average salary in the Canadian army?

As a new direct entry recruit, you could earn between $35,820 – $62,424 annually while you complete basic training.

Can I join the Canadian army at 45?

Unfortunately, no. Under Federal law, the oldest recruits can be to enter any military branch is 42 years old.

Can dual citizens join the Canadian military?

 

Right now, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) offers waivers to foreign nationals only in exceptional cases, to individuals on international military exchanges, or to candidates with high-demand specialized skills.

 

Can a US citizen serve in the Canadian military?

 

Currently, only citizens of Canada can join the Canadian armed forces. However, if you apply for and successfully obtain citizenship, you can apply to join the army right away with no waiting period.

 

What are the benefits of joining the Canadian army?

 

You will have access to medical and dental practitioners that provide service only to CAF members or preferential treatment. In addition, housing is available in most postings.

Conclusion

Finally, If you think you have what it takes to join the Canadian army, hurry up, follow this guide and proceed with your application.