The Age Requirements to Join the British SAS: A Comprehensive Guide

The British Special Air Service (SAS) is one of the most formidable military units in the world, renowned for its operational excellence. However, the path to becoming a member of this elite force is challenging and highly competitive. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of the age requirements and criteria one must meet to join the SAS.

Introduction to SAS Recruitment

The SAS dates back to 1941 and is known for its unconventional and unconventional military training methods. Interestingly, the training for the SAS begins from as early as six months old when candidates are taught to use a potty and walk. However, the process required for joining as a human fighter is much more rigorous. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to join, with the recommended age typically being 20 or older, having previously completed some military service.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINING THE SAS

Age

The age requirements for joining the British SAS are quite specific. You must be between 17 years and 9 months and 42 years and 6 months to apply. This wide age range reflects the readiness of candidates to undergo the demanding training process and their physical fitness levels.

Fitness Standards

To meet the fitness standards for the SAS, candidates must perform the following tasks:

These tests are designed to ensure that candidates have the physical strength and endurance necessary to meet the demands of SAS training and operations.

Joining the British Army and Applying for SAS

While the minimum age to join the British Army is 16, joining the regular army at this age means you cannot immediately apply for the SAS. Instead, you must serve for at least three years, or until you are at least 19, before you can apply. The typical path to joining the SAS entails becoming a civilian and then applying at 17 years and 9 months or older, as only at this age can you begin the rigorous selection process.

For those who wish to join the SAS straight from civilian life, the best route is to apply for the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) 21/23 SAS Selection. This is the only way to join without prior military experience. The youngest you can apply for this route is 17 and a half years old.

Rigorous Selection Process and Retirement Age

Once you pass the initial selection phase, you will undergo a highly demanding training regimen. The SAS selection process involves rigorous physical and psychological testing, which is aimed at weeding out those who cannot withstand the pressures of the training.

The retirement age for SAS members is flexible and can be pushed until the mid-50s, with some members continuing to serve even into their 60s. The commitment to the SAS is unequivocal, requiring a high level of physical fitness and mental resilience, as it is until you drop dead that you are fully committed.

Conclusion

The path to becoming a member of the Special Air Service (SAS) is fraught with challenges and demands of physical and mental fortitude. Only those who are physically fit, mentally resilient, and have a proven track record of military service are likely to make the cut. Whether you join as a civilian or through the army, the process is rigorous, and the age requirements are quite specific. The SAS is a force that demands the absolute best from its members, making it one of the most prestigious and challenging military units in the world.