A Poolee is an individual who has committed to become a United States Marine by enlisting in the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program (DEP) but has not yet shipped to recruit training. During this time, Poolees prepare mentally and physically for the challenges of boot camp, often training with their recruiters and fellow Poolees to build the discipline, fitness, and knowledge needed to succeed as a future Marine.
Delayed Entry Program
With the Delayed Entry Program you get time to prepare, train, and learn
Where it All Starts
The path to becoming a Marine doesn’t begin at boot camp—it begins the moment you commit. The Delayed Entry Program (DEP) gives you time to prepare, train, and step into a community bound by purpose and honor. While you await your assigned ship date, you'll work closely with your recruiter, complete necessary paperwork, and begin learning the values, customs, and expectations that define Marine Corps life.
More than preparation, the DEP is where your transformation begins—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Surrounded by others on the same mission, you'll develop the discipline, strength, and resolve needed to face recruit training head-on. Together, you and others in the DEP, called poolees, will start forging the bonds of trust and brotherhood that carry Marines through every battle.
You may not have earned the title yet—but in the DEP, you’ll prove you're ready to.
Beginning the Journey to Becoming a Marine
Courage, discipline, and mental toughness are the foundation of every Marine—and they begin in the Delayed Entry Program. In the DEP, recruits strengthen their mindset, push their limits, and prove they have what it takes to face the challenge ahead.
DEP prepares future Marines for the physical, mental, and emotional demands of recruit training. It's not a waiting period—it's where your transformation begins.
What the DEP Includes:
- Regular meetings with your Marine Recruiter
- Physical training sessions to build strength and endurance
- Instruction on Marine Corps values, customs, and traditions
- Preparation for the Initial Strength Test (IST)
- Team-building with fellow poolees
- Guidance on completing enlistment paperwork and requirements
- Mentorship to develop discipline and mental toughness
Fitness
Get in Shape. Stay in Shape.
Maintaining fitness is essential
Whether you’re just starting or already pushing your limits, we'll help you achieve and keep that physical toughness it takes to earn the title of Marine.
Coaching From a Recruiter
Get Help From a Trusted Source
Stay in touch with your recruiter
Your Marine Corps Recruiter is more than a source of information. They can help you prepare physically and mentally, making sure you’re ready for your journey.
Basic Marine Corps Information
Learn More About the Corps
Get educated about Marine history and tradition
The Marine Corps is built on a legacy of courage and honor. Understanding our history, values, and warrior ethos are a crucial step in earning the title Marine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program (DEP)
The DEP allows you to enlist in the Marine Corps and delay your ship date to boot camp. During this time, you’ll begin recruit training, learn, and prepare while still living at home.
You can remain in the DEP for up to 365 days, depending on your enlistment agreement and available training slots.
You’ll work with your recruiter to improve physical fitness, learn Marine Corps values and history, complete required paperwork, and prepare mentally for recruit training.
No. Pay and military service benefits begin when you officially enter active duty at boot camp.
Yes. If you decide not to continue, you can request to be released from the program before shipping. Talk to your recruiter for guidance.
Most DEP members, known as Poolees, select their MOS during the enlistment process. Your options depend on your qualifications and job availability at the time of enlistment.
No. The DEP is open to anyone eligible to enlist, including high school graduates, holders of GEDs, college students, and others preparing for active duty.
You may participate in practice physical fitness tests and knowledge sessions. Official testing, like the Initial Strength Test (IST), occurs before shipping.
Yes. You’ll meet regularly with your recruiter and other Poolees for training sessions, team-building events, and preparation activities.
Yes. You’ll meet regularly with your recruiter and other Poolees for training sessions, team-building events, and preparation activities.