Recruitment Process of the French Foreign Legion

The French Foreign Legion, an elite corps of the French army, opens its doors to volunteers from around the world. Are you considering taking your chance? Discover here the key stages of the recruitment process, summarized in five distinct phases, and our tips to maximize your chances of success.

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1) Prerequisites and Administrative Requirements

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a. Prerequisites

To apply to the French Foreign Legion, it is imperative to be between 17.5 and 39.5 years old. Candidates must be physically fit to serve and ready to commit to a minimum of 5 years (under contract). A valid passport or national identity card (for the Schengen area) and a relatively clean criminal record are also necessary to join this institution.

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b. Administrative Procedures

The first step is to present yourself at one of the many French Foreign Legion recruitment centers located in France. There, the candidate fills out an application form and submits personal documents, which will be carefully verified. Make sure to bring all necessary administrative documents, such as identity card, residence permit, driver's license, school certificates, diplomas, military service records, JAPD or defense and citizenship day certificate, a photocopy of family record book, possible marriage or divorce certificates, a birth certificate extract, etc. If you are a minor, also prepare documents related to your legal representatives and their authorization.

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2) 1st Phase of Tests: Physical Condition, Medical Examination, and Motivation Interview

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a) Physical Tests

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i. Luc Léger (Shuttle) Test

This test involves back-and-forth runs on a 20-meter distance at a progressively increasing speed. The test begins at a slow speed, accessible to most, and the intensity increases every minute. The goal is to measure a person's cardio-respiratory capacity by evaluating how many levels they can complete.

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ii. Strength and Endurance Tests

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Push-ups: The number of push-ups completed in one minute is counted to assess arm and upper body strength.

Pull-ups: Pull-ups on a fixed bar evaluate upper body strength, particularly in the arms, shoulders, and back.

Sit-ups: The number of sit-ups in one minute tests abdominal strength and trunk endurance.

Running: A long-distance running test (3 km or more) to assess overall endurance.

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b) Medical Examination

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General Examination and Specific Tests

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A military physician conducts a comprehensive evaluation, including checking vision, hearing, and pulmonary and cardiac functions to ensure the absence of medical conditions that could compromise the applicant's ability to serve in often extreme conditions.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): To detect cardiac abnormalities.

Blood test and urinalysis: To detect potential diseases or anomalies.

X-rays: Primarily of the chest, to exclude serious medical conditions.

c) Motivation Interview

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i. Evaluation of Resilience and Motivation

The motivation interview is conducted by one or several officers of the Legion. The candidate is questioned about their reasons for joining the French Foreign Legion, their expectations, and future ambitions. This interview seeks to understand the individual's determination and ability to persevere in the face of challenges.

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ii. Scenario Simulation

Hypothetical scenarios may be presented to evaluate the person's reaction in stressful or morally complex situations. This helps measure decision-making capacity and adaptability.

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iii. Test of Knowledge about the French Foreign Legion

The candidate may also be asked to demonstrate a basic knowledge of the history and values of the French Foreign Legion, to ensure that their decision to enlist is well-informed.

This first phase of tests is crucial for filtering individuals according to their physical and mental aptitude to meet the rigors of training and life within the French Foreign Legion.

After passing the initial physical and medical obstacles, as well as the initial motivation interview, candidates are subjected to a second phase of testing, more rigorous and comprehensive. This phase is essential for recruitment and is designed to thoroughly test the physical, mental, and psychological abilities of the individuals involved.

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3) Second Phase of Tests, More Comprehensive

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a) Advanced Psychometric Tests

The psychometric tests include assessments of intelligence, logic, problem-solving capacity, and personality tests. These tests aim to evaluate the respondant's ability to adapt to complex and stressful situations, as well as to integrate the values and discipline of the French Foreign Legion.

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b) Increased Endurance Tests

Endurance tests are intensified during this phase. They may include long-distance marches with full equipment, time-constrained obstacle courses, and combat situation simulations. These tests are designed to push individuals to their limits, while evaluating their resilience and ability to maintain optimal performance under pressure. The French Foreign Legion is absolutely not a vacation camp.

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c) Combat Situation Simulations

The candidates participate in simulation exercises that reproduce real combat conditions. These simulations test not only physical fitness but also the candidates' ability to work as a team, follow orders under pressure, and tactically use their environment.

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d) In-Depth Psychological Interviews

More in-depth interviews are conducted by Legion psychologists to better understand the candidate's deep motivations, personal history, and ability to adapt to the rigorous life of the Legion in the long term. These interviews also help detect any potential incompatibilities with the institution's values and requirements.

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e) Continuous Evaluation

Throughout this phase, instructors and psychologists continuously observe and evaluate the candidates' behavior, stress resistance, and adaptability. This ongoing evaluation is crucial for selecting individuals most capable of integrating and succeeding in the French Foreign Legion.

To determine which participants possess the qualities and determination necessary to become a legionnaire. Those who succeed in this phase significantly approach final acceptance into this elite corps.

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4) Appearance Before the Selection Commission

The candidate must then appear before a selection commission, composed of high-ranking officers of the French Foreign Legion. This step is crucial, as it determines whether the person will be accepted into the ranks of the Legion or not. The contract will subsequently be signed to officially become a legionnaire.

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5) The 5 Most Important Tips to Successfully Join the French Foreign Legion

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• Physical and Mental Preparation: Before applying, train regularly and reach optimal physical condition. Failure is not an option; you must be ready before embarking on such a recruitment process.

• Self-Control and Resilience: Develop your ability to remain calm under pressure. Physical fitness is not enough; you must demonstrate great self-mastery to remain operational under any circumstances. It's no longer just about you; your future legionnaire comrades must always be able to count on each other.

• Complete Documentation and Honesty: Ensure you are properly prepared and provide all necessary documents. Moreover, know that honesty in your responses and during the recruitment process is also crucial.

• Total Commitment: Show that you are fully committed to the Legion and its values. You will need to demonstrate sacrifices and dedication. Commitment also means willingness to adapt to a rigorous lifestyle and sometimes extreme situations. This implies putting the needs of the mission and the team before your own, being ready to overcome personal and professional challenges daily.

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Conclusion

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The recruitment process of the French Foreign Legion is rigorous and demanding, but it is designed to select the most capable and motivated individuals and forge them through difficulty. By following these steps and carefully preparing yourself, you will maximize your chances of success and joining the ranks of this elite unit. Good luck!

#French Foreign Legion #Legionnaire #Army #Candidate #Recruitment #Preselection

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