Join the Navy

Did you know that during World War Two, the United States Navy had nearly 7,000 ships?

The United States has a long and storied military tradition in all of its branches, so it’s easy to forget the Navy’s contribution. This force that patrols the oceans and seas provides support and supply lines to other branches. They form the main bulwark against enemy incursion into the wrong waters.

If you join the Navy, you make yourself a part of this valorous branch of the US military. But what can you expect from the process, and what can you get in return?

In this brief guide, we’ll discuss how to join the Navy and what you’ll get from there on out.

Options to Join the Navy

There are a lot of Navy career opportunities. The path for most begins when you enroll as an enlisted member or a Naval Officer. Contrary to popular belief, you can decide for yourself what role(s) you may fulfill.

After visiting a Navy recruiter to discuss your options, you will typically sign a four-year contract. Two years’ completion allows you to become a reservist.

Naval Officer requirements present a higher bar of entry. You will need to obtain at least a Bachelor’s degree before applying. Following this, you will attend a specialized officer training program or Naval Reserve Officer Training program.

Do you have highly specialized skills in law or medicine already? The Navy will accept you directly as a commission.

The Recruitment Process to Join the Navy

First, find your naval recruiter by clicking here.

Applying for all positions in the Navy will require some form of official identification documentation:

• Driver’s license
• Social Security card
• Birth certificate
• Green card

Other information may be relevant to the position you are applying to. In some cases, you can elevate your rank by default with an Eagle Scout award or college transcripts.

Recruiters may also ask for references from people you know. They may request medical records concerning a specific condition or injury. All of this is to do a thorough evaluation of your ability to serve.

You’ll then need to complete a physical evaluation, such as MEPS (military entrance processing station) and ASVAB (armed forces vocational aptitude battery).

After taking these tests and getting an acceptable passing score, you can get sworn in. This makes your decision to join the US Navy official. Soon you’ll be on your way to boot camp!

Benefits of Joining the Navy

There is a wide range of benefits that come from serving in the military. Not only do you have a guaranteed career, but you qualify for military-subsidized healthcare and living expenses.

The GI Bill is a way for those enlisted to get a partial or full ride for their education. VA home loans can assist you in purchasing a single-family home.

Military scholarships in addition to the GI Bill can help to cover additional education costs. This includes organizations like the ROTC (reserve officers training corps).

Military schools also present a way to get a quality education for a much more affordable price.

Keep Up to Date With usmilitary.com

When you join the Navy, you become a proud brother in arms for the largest naval force in the world. There are some requirements depending on the role you intend to take part in. Regardless, you can rest assured that you will obtain some of the best career benefits in the country for an entry-level job!

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