Frequently Asked Questions

Q:

What happens after Basic Training?
A:

As a Non-commissioned Member you will start either your initial occupational training or begin a short period of on-the-job training. Upon successful completion of your training, you will start doing the job you joined to do.

As an Officer your subsequent training will depend on your enrolment program as briefed by your local recruiting center during enrolment.
Q: How fit should I be?
A: It is essential that you are reasonably fit and free of any injuries or medical problems. Before joining, concentrate on cardiovascular work such as running and circuit training. Aim to achieve the Canadian Forces minimum standard of fitness now, to give you a head start.
Q: Can I pursue sport at a competitive level while in the Army?
A: Sure. If you are playing top-level sports of any kind, the Army will give you the opportunity to train and compete, however, training and operational requirements come first. The Army has men and women who compete at national and international levels, as well as fulfilling their regular duties.
Q: Can you gain school qualifications while in the Army?
A: You will find your first 18 months to two years in the Army are very busy as we teach you the basic things you need to know to perform your military occupation. Your focus at this stage is on becoming an effective member of our team. Some of your military training will provide you with high school, college or university equivalency credits.
Q: Can you move between occupations if you gain new qualifications?
A: Yes indeed. Like most organizations, the Army is keen to see people who have improved their skill take on new challenges. We allow a number of serving members to transfer into new occupations each year.
Q:

What is the leave allowance?
A:

Please refer to annual leave page.
Q: Can I wear jewelry?
A: You can wear a plain signet, engagement and/or wedding ring. Only women can wear earrings, which should be one pair of plain studs only. No other jewelry is allowed. A sturdy waterproof wristwatch is recommended.
Q: What about body piercing(s)?
A: Body piercing will not prevent you from enrolling, however, the only authorized wear of ornament and jewelry in those piercing authorized for women are those stated in the question "Can I wear jewelry?"
Q: What about haircut, sideburns, moustaches and beards?
A:

Men:
Hair shall taper-trimmed at the back. Style and colour shall not present a bizarre, exaggerated, or unusual appearance. Sideburns shall not extend below a line horizontally bisecting the ear. Moustaches shall be kept neatly trimmed. Beards; permission to wear a beard shall only be grated in certain circumstances.

Women:
Hair shall not extend below the lower edge of the shirt collar. Braid, if worn, shall be styled conservatively and tied tightly.

Q: What is the Army life like day-to-day and month-to-month?
A: One of the key things about life as a soldier is that your job will vary and you will be doing many different things. While you are on an Army base your job is pretty much like any 8 to 4 job, but you will also spend time away from the base to: participate in field exercise, attend career courses, be employed overseas, etc.
Q:

How long can I stay in the Army?
A:

It all depends on your engagement plan/program. Your initial engagement as a non-commissioned member is three years minimum while officers have varying commitments depending on their enrolment plan.

Q: What is the discipline like?
A: The Army will expect a high standard of conduct, physical fitness, dress and discipline from you. It might take a bit of getting used to at first, but once you adapt to the routine of Army life, your confidence and self-discipline will increase so that you can handle whatever we throw at you.
Q: What are the opportunities to travel?
A: Once you have completed your basic occupational training, you could find yourself deployed overseas on an exercise or as part of a multinational force.
Q: What access do recruits have to their families?
A:

While you undergo your recruit course, time is allocated to ensure you are able to remain in contact with family and friends.

Q: Can I attend Church?
A: Yes. We have Army chaplains available on every base. They take an active interest in the welfare of all soldiers.
Q: What is the pay like after basic training?
A:

As you progress through your job and complete courses, receive promotion or gain extra skills, your salary increases. In addition, with access to recreational facilities and benefits provided by the Army, your final overall salary package is very competitive. For more details, visit "Pay and Benefits"

Q: How can I obtain a subsidized university education from the Canadian Forces?
A: If you want to attend the Royal Military College of Canada or be subsidized at a civilian university, apply at a Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre.
Q: What about offensive tattoos?
A: The Army does not condone nor promote actions/activities that are deemed racist in nature, offensive to an individual's self-worth or that can be interpreted as harassing to others. In an effort to promote a healthy work environment, an applicant bearing a tattoo anywhere on his/her body that contravenes these directives must have the tattoo removed, sufficiently altered or blackened out prior to enrolment.