What basic education requirement must soldiers meet prior to promotion to E4?

To be eligible for promotion to E4, soldiers are required to have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. This requirement ensures that soldiers possess a fundamental level of education, which is important for understanding military duties and responsibilities, as well as for effective communication within the ranks.

Having a high school diploma or GED helps ensure that soldiers can read and understand orders, conduct training, and perform job functions effectively. Such educational attainment is a critical component of a soldier's ability to serve, and it demonstrates a commitment to personal development that is valued in the military.

While completing basic training and advanced individual training is essential for skill development and fulfilling military obligations, these do not fulfill the basic educational requirement for promotion to E4. Additionally, a college degree is not a prerequisite for promotion to this rank, as the military places emphasis on the foundational education represented by a high school diploma or GED instead.