Air Force BMT runs on a set 7.5-week arc, with Zero Week added at the front for in-processing. Here's the phase-by-phase timeline, and how to confirm your Airman's exact graduation date.
Quick Answer
- Length: 7.5 weeks of training, plus Zero Week in-processing at the start (about 8.5 weeks total).
- Location: 737th Training Group, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland — the only location for Air Force BMT.
- Ends with: the Airman's Coin Ceremony, followed by the Airman's Run, Retreat, and formal Parade.
Training length and schedule are set by the 737th Training Group and can change. Always confirm your Airman's specific timeline with them directly.
Phase-by-Phase Timeline
| Phase | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Zero Week | Arrival at JBSA-Lackland, uniform issue, immunizations, paperwork, and meeting your Military Training Instructor (MTI) |
| Weeks 1–2 | Drill and ceremonies, dorm standards, Air Force core values, and the start of physical training |
| Weeks 3–4 | Classroom instruction on Air Force history, self-aid buddy care, and weapons familiarization at the range |
| Weeks 5–6 | BEAST (Basic Expeditionary Airman Skills Training) — a field exercise combining convoy operations, base defense, and teamwork under pressure |
| Week 7 | Final PT assessment and the Airman's Coin Ceremony — trainees officially earn the title of Airman |
| Week 7.5 | Retreat, the Airman's Run, and the formal graduation Parade, followed by departure to technical training |
How to Confirm Your Airman's Exact Date
Your Airman is the most reliable source for their specific graduation date and flight schedule — ask them during a scheduled phone call and confirm again as the date approaches, since schedules can shift.
Plan Graduation Week
Airman's Coin Ceremony
What the ceremony itself looks like, start to finish.
Hotels Near Lackland
Book early — graduation week rooms go fast.
Base Access
ID requirements and current guest policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Air Force BMT?
7.5 weeks of training, plus Zero Week in-processing at the start — about 8.5 weeks total, all at the 737th Training Group, JBSA-Lackland.
What happens during BEAST week?
BEAST (Basic Expeditionary Airman Skills Training) is a field exercise during weeks 5–6 combining convoy operations, base defense, and teamwork exercises — it's considered one of the toughest parts of BMT.
How do I find my Airman's exact graduation date?
Your Airman is the best source — ask during a scheduled phone call. Dates can shift, so confirm again as graduation week approaches.
What is the last event before graduation?
The Airman's Coin Ceremony near the end of Week 7, where trainees officially earn the title of Airman, followed by the Airman's Run, Retreat, and formal Parade.