Frequently Asked Questions

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a youth program for young Americans, male and female, ages 13 through 17, whose objectives are to develop an interest and skill in basic seamanship and in its naval adaptations, to train them in seagoing skills and to teach them patriotism, courage, self-reliance and kindred virtues. Cadets train aboard the ships and shore activities of the Navy and Coast Guard, and are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy uniforms appropriately marked with Sea Cadet Corps insignia. There are some 260 units in operation in almost every state in the union as well as Puerto Rico and Guam, with some 6,000 young Americans participating. The Naval Sea Cadet Corps affords equal opportunity for participation to all American youth without regard to race, color, religion or sex.

How old must I be to join the Sea Cadets?

You are eligible to join if you are 13 years of age or have not reached your 18th birthday.

What are the requirements of membership?

All prospective cadets must be unmarried, enrolled in school, have parental consent and possess good moral character in addition to being interested in the program and prepared to attend drills regularly.

What about medical exams?

Applicants must successfully pass a basic physical examination very similar to that required of a regular Navy enlistee.

Will I have to pay dues?

Yes. A yearly membership is required. This includes paid premiums for the Sea Cadet Group Accident and Health Protection Plan. See the POM for costs.

Must I buy my own uniform?

Surplus U.S. Navy uniforms are made available to the Naval Sea Cadet Corps. These uniforms, in turn, are made available at a minimal cost. Uniform items, which cannot be met through this source, may be purchased at Navy Exchange Uniform Shops.

Will Sea Cadet Training detract from my schoolwork?

Not likely. Sea Cadet units usually meet one evening a week or one weekend per month during the school year. Training away from home is usually conducted only during school vacation periods.

What will I learn as a Sea Cadet?

Sea Cadets study a broad range or subjects. Some are designed to help them to become better citizens. They study naval history, customs, and traditions, seamanship, navigation and similar subjects which would improve their chances for success, should they decide to join one of the sea services.

What are my chances for promotion?
Promotion within the Sea Cadets is based on merit. Promising young men and women, upon filling certain qualifications and requirements, are given command positions and encouraged to develop qualities of leadership.

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Who sponsors the Sea Cadets?

Most Sea Cadet units are sponsored by individual Councils of the Navy League of the United States, a non-profit organization of U.S. citizens whose objective is to support the U.S. maritime services and who are deeply interested in the welfare of young Americans. The West Michigan Division is sponsored by Great Lakes Naval Memorial and Museum.

Who instructs the Sea Cadets?

Sea Cadets are instructed by naval personnel (active, reserve and retired), by Senior Cadets and by other adult leaders willing to devote their time and knowledge to this activity.

Can I go to camp this summer?

Yes. Newly enrolled Sea Cadets are required to attend two weeks of summer recruit training at Navy or Coast Guard "boot camps" throughout the country. Having successfully completed recruit training, cadets participate in additional training in advanced subjects during succeeding summers. These two-week training periods offer a varied program of activities in addition to valuable instruction of a maritime nature.

Are Sea Cadets permitted to go to sea?

Yes. After completing recruit training and other required courses of instruction, many Sea Cadets can participate in two weeks advanced training aboard Navy craft to nuclear powered aircraft carriers.

What training is available aboard ship?

Sea Cadets are trained in basic seamanship, damage control, watch standing, fire fighting and other nautical skills.

Are there advanced training courses for Sea Cadets?
Yes. In addition to advanced training aboard naval vessels, Sea Cadets may attend advanced orientation courses sc as Airman's School, Music School, Seabee Indoctrination, Seal Team Training Submarine Orientation and other courses designed to prepare cadets for leadership, either within the Sea Cadets organization or in other fields.

Are there travel opportunities?
Yes. Sea Cadets travel to training sites all over the country during the summer training period. Additionally, outstanding cadets are selected to participate in the U.S. -Canadian sea Cadet Exchange Program in Nova Scotia and British Columbia.

How are Sea Cadets selected for the exchange program?

Exchange cadets are selected on a merit basis. Each cadet must have an outstanding record as well as a good reputation within his/her home community.

Can Sea Cadets obtain summer employment?

Yes. Sea Cadets are permitted to choose a training period during the summer months that will not interfere with summer employment arrangements.

Will I be required to join the U.S. Armed Forces?

No. Sea Cadets have absolutely no commitment regarding future military service. For those Sea Cadets who do decide to enlist in the Navy or Coast Guard, prior Sea Cadet training may permit entry at an advanced pay grade.

What is the main purpose of Sea Cadet training?

While Sea Cadet are organized along military lines, their main purpose is to encourage and aid American youth to develop, train them in seagoing skills, and to teach them patriotism, courage, self-reliance and kindred virtues. The program teaches respect, enforces self-esteem and responsibility.

National resources

United States Naval Sea Cadet Corp - National Recruiting Site

USNSCC Compass

USNSCC Resources