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Do I need to declare dyslexia when joining the military?

You’re in the right place if you’re thinking about joining and unsure whether to mention dyslexia.

No. You do not need to declare dyslexia when joining the UK military, and you are not screened for it during recruitment. Dyslexia is not a barrier to joining or serving.

Choosing not to declare does not put you at a disadvantage in recruitment.

You will, however, need to meet the same selection, training and performance standards as everyone else. If your dyslexia could affect how you carry out your duties, it is your responsibility to tell your chain of command.

What the policy actually says

The military’s policy on Specific Learning Differences (JSP 822, Vol 7) is clear:

  • You are not required to declare dyslexia during recruitment.
  • You are not screened for dyslexia as part of recruitment.
  • Dyslexia is not a barrier to joining or serving — see is dyslexia a barrier in the military.
  • You must meet the same standards as anyone else.
  • If your dyslexia could affect your training or work, it’s your responsibility to inform your chain of command.

Direct policy wording: “There is no requirement for SP with SpLD to inform their line manager, trainer, or commander, if their condition does not affect their training or work.” (JSP 822, Vol 7, Para 2.4.2)

What this means in reality

Around 1 in 10 personnel are dyslexic — roughly 18,000 people serving today. Senior leaders openly discuss their dyslexia. Soldiers with 30+ years of service describe how dyslexia shaped their careers. Dyslexia in Defence is normal, not exceptional.

The MOD has signed the British Dyslexia Association’s Dyslexia Friendly Workplace Pledge, and dyslexic personnel serve at every rank across all three services.

Support already exists

  • Defence Dyslexia Network — over 2,000 serving personnel, every rank.
  • 250+ volunteer ambassadors — volunteers from across Defence who provide informal peer support, practical guidance and signposting based on their own lived experience. They are not accredited specialists or professional advisors.
  • Active internal forum — daily peer support.

For the full picture see what support is available.

Reassurance

You don’t need to declare dyslexia to join. You won’t be screened out for it. And if you do choose to share it — at any point — there’s a structured network ready to help.

Back to ‘Thinking of joining’ pathway

You don’t need to decide whether to declare today — start by speaking to people who already have.

Still unsure what to do next?

The quickest way to get clarity is to speak to people who’ve been through it.