Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 12/20/2009

Question
QUESTION: Dear Commander Cynthia Bedell, I am really in need of some advice and some appropriate information. I am not understanding this process explained by my recruiter.

I have cleared my ASVAB with more then 50 AFQT,I have 4 yrs college degree, also I am also have foreign language proficiency which Army is looking for these days.

In my Physical, MEPS found my BP higher then the requirement. I never had high BP, I was little nervous and this lead to my high BP. I talked with the station commandant and he said I need to get 3 good BP reading from my family doctor, I did that. Now, my recruiter told me that my waiver process is in Army HQ.

I would like to know how long this process takes?
Does BP reading sent to MEPS or to Army HQ?
What Happen after the waiver is approved?
What happen if they don't approve my waiver?

I would really appreciate if you can help me to find these answers.

Thank you so very much

Utpal



ANSWER: Dear Utpal --

Once you are disqualified at MEPS your waiver petition goes to the Department of the Army to determine if they will grant you a waiver for your condition.  

The boards meet on a regular basis, but time between boards can be 3 months.  If your petition for a waiver went in just after the last board met, then it can be more than 120 days before you hear your waiver decision.

If the waiver is approved, you will be able to enlist, but if your condition causes you issues with training or your duty assignments, you can be discharged without recourse for failure to meet entrance health standards.

If they do not approve the waiver, you will not be allowed to enlist.

Stay in touch with your recruiter for updates on your waiver package.

Good luck to you.





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear Cynthia Bedell, thank you so much for your information.
I have few follow up question

1. I have been told by my recruiter that, such waiver comes in 1 week?
2. If I don't get approve, can I start my process once again?
3. What are the possibilities for getting waiver these days?

Thank you for your advice

Have a happy holiday

Answer
Dear Utpal --

If your timing was good or the waiver is routine, you can hear back in less than a week.  Since it is the Holiday season, I do not expect you to hear anything before 5 January or so.

If your waiver is denied, you may attempt to re-enlist again.  However, there is a waiting period before you can try again.  I do not know the length of time you will have to wait for this particular health issue.

Waivers are currently rare, but minor health waivers will continue.  Waivers for criminal misconduct and drug or alcohol abuse are not being offered by any of the services at this moment.  Waiver availability can change from month to month.

The Air Force and Coast Guard are the services least likely to offer waivers.  The Army and Marine Corps are the services most likely to offer a waiver.

Good luck to you.