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The chart below shows the weight requirements for males to enlist in the Marine Corps Delayed Enlistment Program (DEP).

Applicants who exceed the weight limits below require a waiver, approved by the Marine Corps Recruiting Region Commanding General, in order to enlist in the DEP. Waivers are only approved if the recruit can meet the Initial Strength Test (IST) requirements, and does not exceed allowable body fat limits.

The Marine Corps Body-Fat limit for male recruits is 18 percent. The procedures to measure body fat can be found in Marine Corps Order (MCO) 6100.12 - MARINE CORPS PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST AND BODY COMPOSITION PROGRAM MANUAL.

Prior to shipping out to basic training, Marine Recruits must meet different (more strict) weight standards, known as the "Retention Weight Standards." Recruits who exceed the Retention Weight Standards can still ship out to basic training, if any of the following conditions are met:

Within 5 percent of retention weight standards: If the recruit passes the IST, he can ship to basic training with no waiver.

More than 5 percent over retention weight: Recruit must pass the IST, and receive a waiver from the Marine Corps Recruiting District Commanding Officer.

More than 10 percent over retention weight: Recruit must pass the IST, be within body-fat standards (18 percent), and receive a waiver from the Marine Corps Recruiting Region Commanding General.

Above Information Derived from Marine Corps Order (MCO) P1100.72B - MILITARY PERSONNEL ROCUREMENT MANUAL, VOLUME 2, ENLISTED PROCUREMENT