Recently, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has changed the required age to go on missions for girls. This is a big step for equality in the church. The mission age used to be 21 up until 2012. Then it was changed to 19. On November 21, 2025 it was announced girls can now go on missions at 18. Alongside the boys being able to go at 18. Girls no longer have to take a “gap year” to serve. With this new revelation, I’m sure it has changed some girls’ plans for after high school.
“No, it hasn’t affected my plans. I’m still doing a year of schooling to get ahead then going”, said senior Jenna Bruderer.
“After I graduate I’m going on my mission”, said senior Elyse Richards.
Post high school, the previous 19 year old age requirement often forced young women to start college or work for just one year, making it harder to “pause” life later.
“I’m very excited about the age change, it’s so hard to start schooling or a job then just stop and go on a mission. Now I can just go on a mission and start schooling and work after”, said senior Jade Olson.
Since the change in age, there has been an increase in sisters. The church has added 55 new missions to accommodate. The church has also stated that it is still optional for women to go, allowing them to seek personal revelation on whether to prioritize education, work, or service first. This adds a big flexibility factor, whether they want to go right after high school or if they want to pursue other things until they are ready.
“Since the church doesn’t require women to go, I don’t feel obligated to go after I graduate so I can get a head start on my career, then go after I do that”, said senior Bella Borrowman.
In conclusion, the evolution of missionary age requirements for young women highlights a move toward a more inclusive and flexible path for women. While it has stayed a voluntary opportunity for women rather than a priesthood duty, the chance to serve earlier allows them to experience a mission right after high school or a single semester of college. This change has empowered so many young women to go and serve rather than waiting and putting their life they made after high school on hold.
