Overview
- The First Presidency said the change takes effect immediately for young women following high school graduation or its equivalent.
- Leaders reiterated that missionary service for women is optional, whereas young men are asked to prepare for and serve as a priesthood responsibility.
- Mission durations remain unchanged, with women serving 18 months and men serving two years.
- The church reports more than 84,000 full-time missionaries worldwide and has announced 55 new missions to begin July 1, 2026, bringing the total to 506.
- Researchers and campus officials expect the lower age to increase female applications and to prompt enrollment deferrals and other planning shifts over the next year.