France sees surge in applications for 10-month voluntary military service

France is experiencing strong demand for its voluntary military service programme, with applications already exceeding available places, according to Le Figaro.

The newspaper reported that more than 2,300 young people have applied for the 10-month national service scheme, while around 1,800 places are currently available. The application process is still ongoing.

General Arnaud Goujon, deputy head of the recruitment unit, said about 1,600 candidates are already undergoing selection, and 260 have been assigned placements so far.

The programme is open to French citizens aged 18 to 25 and runs between September and November, with a service duration of 10 months. Military figures indicate that around 22% of applicants are women.

Approximately 90% of applicants have chosen combat-related roles, including infantry, engineering units and artillery, though logistics, technical maintenance and intelligence positions are also in demand.

After one month of basic training, participants are assigned to units based on medical fitness, motivation and operational needs. They receive a monthly allowance of around €800 and are provided with accommodation throughout their service.

Army Chief of Staff General Pierre Schill said the programme could serve as both a formative experience for young people and a contribution to strengthening France’s defence readiness.

By Vugar Khalilov