Effective immediately, women may begin full-time missionary service at 18 following high school graduation or an equivalent.

The announcement comes just over a month after Dallin H. Oaks was called as the president and prophet of the church on Oct. 14, following the passing of President Russell M. Nelson on Sept. 27.

“While the Lord asks every worthy, able young man as part of his priesthood responsibility to prepare for and serve a mission, we reiterate that missionary service remains an optional opportunity for young women,” the First Presidency said in a statement. “We recognize that for those young women who desire to serve a full-time mission, the choice of age to begin service will not be the same for everyone.”

Since 2013, women have become eligible for missionary service at 19, while men have been eligible to leave at 18. The change allows men and women to leave on missions at the same age.

President Emily Belle Freeman of the Young Women’s General Presidency said the change will allow young women to consider the options available to them as they reach adulthood.

“We are so excited about this announcement as a Young Women’s General Presidency and what this means for our girls,” Freeman said. “This announcement is effective immediately, which means that girls can start preparing now to serve at the age of 18 if they have graduated from high school. They will be able to submit their application 150 days before their birthday or their availability date.”