I applied in-person. The process took 3 days. I interviewed at US Army (Chula Vista, CA) in Dec 2012
Interview
You meet with a recruiter at a recruitment station and they ask you questions. If you pass that and a PT test, then you get medically evaluated at some point.
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at US Army (Detroit, MI) in Jul 2011
Interview
Probably killed several very old trees worth in paperwork, but almost anyone can get in. Its finding a job you want. Takes luck, patience, and at least a 5th grade education.