How To Unlock MW3 Ranked Play

Despite launching back in November 2023, Modern Warfare 3 only received its Ranked Play mode as part of Season 1 Reloaded, which launched on January 10, 2024. As such, players have had the chance to finesse their skills in the general battleground, preparing themselves for the competitive challenge to come.

In Ranked Play, players will be working their way through eight Skill Divisions and Tiers, from Bronze I up to Iridescent and then Top 250. Progression is achieved through earning SR (Skill Rating), which is awarded based on personal and team performance in each match. 

But before you can dive into Ranked Play, you'll need to reach a certain threshold. Here's how to to unlock Ranked Play in Modern Warfare 3. 

Modern Warfare 3: How To Unlock Ranked Play

Ranked Play in Modern Warfare 3 won't be available for everyone to play by default, rather it'll only be unlocked by those willing to put in the work. To unlock Ranked Play in Modern Warfare 3, players will need to reach Level 55. After hitting this milestone, you'll be able to access Ranked Play.

All players will begin at Rank 1, which represents your Ranked Career. As you win matches,  you'll earn starts and rank up. Unlike your Skill Division, your rank is permanent and will stay with you across seasons. 

Each season of MW3 Ranked Play will offer up different rewards as you rank up, ranging from animated Emblems to full Operator Skins. Make it into the Top 250 players and you'll earn yourself even more exclusive rewards. For the full breakdown of each Skill Division and the rewards up for grabs, check out our guide.