What is the highest rank you can get out of boot camp?
John Thompson
Updated on January 14, 2026
To reach the rank of E-1, all Marines must complete Recruit Training, or "Boot Camp", which lasts 13 weeks in either Parris Island, SC, or San Diego, CA. Until graduation, they are Recruits and essentially E-"nothings". Upon graduation, Marines may be promoted to E-1, E-2, or E-3 depending on several factors.