Recruiting FAQ

1. How hard is basic training?
It is as hard as you make it. It is possible, albeit very difficult, to complete training if you do not give your maximum effort. But if you give it all you got, then you will succeed in the Canadian Army.

2. What is life like on course?
On your BMQ, SQ and BIQ the schedule will be something along the lines of: Get up at 5:30, do Physical training (PT), shower, eat breakfast, have lectures and training until lunch. Then after lunch you will continue training and lectures. What happens after depends on the performance of the platoon, weather and the instructors. You may end up doing more PT or doing a forced march, remedial drill. Lights out at 2300.

After your basic courses, the schedule will change a lot.

3. Why should I join the Army?
Different people will give you different answers. If you are a student tired of the same-old boring minimum wage job and want better summer employment, the reserves are tailored for you. If you want an exciting addon to your current civilian career, the reserves are a great opportunity to learn new things and face tough challenges. If you want a feel of what the regular Army is like, the reserves are also a great place to start off. Of course, serving in the Army is also a great way to serve Canada!

4. As a reservist, will I be forced to go on a mission?
No! As a reservist, you have the choice of training at home or, when you are ready, volunteering to go a tour of duty. Reservists are not forced to go on tour, but there are plenty of opportunities. It is a choice to go overseas in the reserves.

5. How much does it cost?
Nothing! Just your comittment and we pay you.

6. When can I quit?
Anytime you want. There is no time comittment in the primary reserves.

7. Will I get to fire a gun?
Once you receive the proper instruction and pass a weapons handling test, you will fire the C7A1 service rifle, a variant of the American M16A2.

8. Do I need to cut my hair?
There is a standard length that your hair must be under, but it does not need to be shaved off.

9. Will instructors physically harm me during basic training?
No. It is against rules to touch or in any way harm recruits.

10. Will I have to live on a base?
Only if you go away on a full time course during the summer. On most weekends you get to go home after 1700.

11. I'm a woman, can I still join the Infantry?
As long as you meet the physical standards, you can join any trade you want, including the Infantry. The RMR currently has two women serving in the Infantry, and others supporting us as clerks.