sea cadet parent information page
Commonly asked questions
What is the Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC)?
The NSCC is the senior cadet program for young men and women ages 13-17 who are interested in developing their skills in leadership, basic seamanship, courage, self-reliance and discipline. Our cadets are also committed to being drug-, alcohol- and gang-free.
What is the Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC)?
The NLCC is the junior program for the NSCC. The NLCC introduces boys and girls ages 10-13 to naval life through instruction in basic seamanship and leadership.
Who sponsors the NSCC/NLCC?
Many cadet units are sponsored by individual Councils of the Navy League of the United States, a non-profit organization made up of U.S. citizens whose objective is to support the sea services, and who are deeply interested in the welfare of young Americans.
Becoming a Cadet, will I be required to join the U.S. Armed Forces as part of being a cadet?
No. We are not a recruiting vehicle for the armed services. Cadets have absolutely no commitment regarding future military service.
I want to enlist in the military after high school. How can being a Sea Cadet help me?
For those cadets who decide to enlist in the military, their prior training as a Sea Cadet may allow them to join at an advanced pay grade. This means that a cadet who enlists may be eligible for a higher rank and pay than his or her non-cadet counterparts. Cadets who choose to enlist in the military also tend to do better and stay in longer. Each cadet who enters the armed services is a disciplined, well-trained individual who typically adjusts better to the rigors of military service than those with no experience.
I want to apply for a service academy or another officer commissioning program after high school. How can being a Sea Cadet help me?
Being a Sea Cadet can help individuals become more competitive for certain programs. More than 12% of the Class of 2019 at the U.S. Naval Academy were former Sea Cadets. Every year many graduating high school seniors are accepted into ROTC or OCS programs around the country. We think some of this can be attributed to the unparalleled training experience received as a Sea Cadet.
What are the requirements of membership?
All prospective cadets must be U.S. citizens, who meet our minimum age requirements (ages 10 through the completion of high school). Cadets must be committed to being a drug-free, unmarried, full-time student with at least a "C"-grade point average. Cadets must also have parental consent to join the program. We are looking for cadets who are interested in contributing as much as possible to the program by attending drills and upholding our standards of conduct.
A medical examination similar to a high school sports physical is required for all cadet applicants to the NSCC or NLCC. No one will be denied admission to the NSCC/NLCC due to a medical disability. Where a medical condition precludes full, unlimited participation, a Request for Accommodation (NSCADM 015) may be presented by the parent or guardian for review so the cadet may participate in NSCC activities to the maximum extent possible.
Adult applicants must be in good health commensurate with their age group and be free from any ailment or condition that would prevent them from satisfactorily performing their primary duty of supervising youth.
NOTE: Adults not physically qualified to perform all duties may still participate with a waiver from NHQ considering the parameters of their expected contribution to the USNSCC program.
Can anyone join? We welcome all applicants who meet the above membership requirements. The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps will never discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, national origin or disability. It is very important to us to promote a culture of inclusion in our Sea Cadet family.
Will I have to pay membership fees?
Yes. Your enrollment fee includes premiums paid toward the Sea Cadet Group Accident and Health Protection Plan. This is our insurance plan, designed to keep you covered in the low likelihood of something happening during a cadet-sponsored training event. It is important to us that the membership fees are minimal in order to be accessible to as many people as possible.
Annual enrollment fees are:
$190 for initial enrollment
$105.00/year per each NSCC/NLCC cadet;
$40/year per officer/midshipman/instructor
Annual enrollment fees are based on four factors: cost of program operation and administration by NHQ; cost of group accident and health premium; cost of liability insurance premium; and funding of each Regional Directors' allowance. Monthly Drill Fee is usually $35.00 a month which pays for meals & lodging.
What kind of uniforms will I wear?
Cadets are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy enlisted uniforms appropriately marked with the NSCC/NLCC insignia.
Do I buy my own uniforms?
Surplus U.S. Navy uniforms are made available to the NSCC and NLCC. These uniforms, in turn, are then made available to cadets. A $150 uniform deposit will cover the cost of your uniforms throughout your tenure with the Sea Cadets.
Uniform needs that cannot be met through this source may be purchased at Navy Exchange Uniform Shops.
What is the main purpose of cadet training?
While cadet units are organized along military lines, their main purpose is to foster good citizenship and an interest and appreciation of our nation's sea services. Cadets and volunteers are also quick to name the wonderful by-products of our training program: new friends, a sense of accomplishment from overcoming obstacles and involvement with the community.
How much time will my cadet training require each month?
Time commitment varies from unit-to-unit, but a typical unit will meet for one weekend a month, called a drill weekend. Additional training opportunities of varying lengths are often made available throughout the year.
What do cadets learn?
Cadets study a broad range of subjects, all of them designed to enhance the individual. Some sessions, like community service, are designed to help them become better citizens, while other classes will teach them the importance of strong maritime forces. Cadets will study naval history, customs and traditions, seamanship, navigation and similar subjects.
Who instructs cadets?
Cadets are instructed by naval personnel (active duty, reserve and retired), by senior cadets and by dedicated adult volunteer leaders who make up the USNSCC Officer Corps.
Are there advanced training courses for cadets?
Yes. In addition to advanced training aboard naval vessels, Sea Cadets may attend advanced training evolutions such as airman training, Seabee indoctrination, SEAL challenge, military law enforcement training, and Leadership Academy.
Navy League Cadets may participate in one-week advanced training evolutions in subjects such as leadership, seamanship and boating safety.
Are cadets permitted to go to sea?
Yes. After completing recruit training and other required courses of instruction, many Sea Cadets can participate in advanced training aboard Navy and Coast Guard vessels ranging from small patrol craft to large nuclear powered aircraft carriers.
While Navy League Cadets are not permitted to go to sea for extended periods, they often participate in day cruises and tours.
What travel opportunities are available to cadets?
Sea Cadets travel to training sites all over the country during the summer training period. Additionally, outstanding Sea Cadets are selected to participate in the NSCC International Exchange Program. Exchange cadets are selected on a merit basis; each cadet must have an outstanding record as well as good standing within his or her home unit. To learn more about NSCC's International Exchange Program, visit seacadets.org
What are the main differences between the training experiences of the NLCC and the NSCC?
The training program designed for League Cadets is age-appropriate and less rigorous than that of the NSCC. It is less arduous, but still includes a wide variety of training opportunities designed to give League Cadets exposure to Navy life.
When joining the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, cadets are required to have attended a two-week away-from-home recruit training in order to rise in rank and participate in advanced training sessions. League Cadets have the option to attend a one-week, away-from-home orientation, but it is not a requirement for rank advancement.
Becoming a Volunteer What is the USNSCC Officer Corps?
The NSCC Officer Corps is made of dedicated volunteers adult leaders, both civilian and military, who provide for the administration of all facets of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps. This includes the operation of local units to the operation of two-week summer training programs. Officers must be U.S. Citizens and be at least 21 years of age.
What is an NSCC Midshipman?
NSCC midshipmen are adult leaders in training who are between the ages of 18 and 21. Normally NSCC midshipmen are former cadets who reached the rate of seaman as a cadet, former JROTC cadets, or members of the military who are not old enough to be an NSCC instructor or officer.
What is an NSCC Instructor?
An NSCC instructor is an adult leader who either has an interest in becoming an NSCC officer or who wants to dedicate his or her time to mentoring and training cadets. All persons applying to be in the NSCC Officer Corps are first enrolled as an NSCC instructor for a period of one year. After one year, instructors may apply for an appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps or remain an instructor. Instructor responsibilities are generally less than those of an officer.
Will I have to undergo a criminal background check?
Yes. To ensure the safety and security of cadets, all NSCC adult leaders undergo a background check at initial enrollment and periodically at the discretion of NSCC National Headquarters.
I am a parent of a cadet. Can I be an NSCC adult leader?
Yes. In fact, a large percentage of NSCC adult leader are parents of current and former cadets. Involved parents are the lifeblood of the NSCC Officer Corps.
What experience is required?
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is organized along military lines; therefore, having military experience is a definite plus, but it is not a requirement. Experienced adult leaders and senior cadets will gladly help you become familiar with the military atmosphere. At most local units, volunteers are needed to instruct cadets in a variety of subjects, keep and maintain service records, keep track of cadet training, maintain unit supply, and recruit and publicize the program. As long as you are motivated and willing to help in the cause of promoting the positive development of youth, there is a place for you in the Corps.
Do I get to wear a uniform?
Yes. NSCC officers, midshipman, and instructors are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear the U.S. Navy officer uniforms appropriately modified with NSCC insignia.
Will I have to purchase my own uniform?
In most cases, yes. NSCC adult leaders are authorized to purchase uniform items from U.S. Navy Uniform Shops on base and the Navy’s Uniform Support Center in Pensacola, FL by phone and mail order. In some cases units have a supply of surplus/used uniforms that may be provided at no or nominal cost. Many large Naval bases also have Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society thrift shops that sell used uniform items at deep discounts. In any case uniform purchases are often income tax-deductible (consult your tax attorney for more information).
Do I have to be physically fit?
Yes. You must be physically fit and free from ailments that would prevent you from supervising youth and performing your assigned duties. You must also meet U.S. Navy weight standards to wear the NSCC uniform. Those who do not meet the weight requirements may wear an alternate civilian style uniform.
Do adult leaders earn rank?
Yes. Those adult leaders who apply for appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps will have the opportunity to earn rank. New NSCC officers are appointed by the NSCC Executive Director to the rank of ensign. The NSCC officer rank structure parallels that of the U.S. Navy. NSCC officers may promote through the rank of lieutenant commander. In order for NSCC officers to promote they must meet minimum performance, training, and time-in-service requirements. They must also contribute a minimum amount of volunteer service to NSCC summer training programs. NSCC officer rank is entirely honorary and does not have any relation to or authority and entitlements of actual military rank.
I can only commit a couple of hours a month. Can I still help?
Absolutely! We understand that there are many people who want to help but have busy lives, and giving up 20-30 hours a month to be a full time volunteer is just not feasible. Often all it takes is a couple of hours a month to help a unit sort uniforms, teach a class, chaperone a field trip and the like. The contribution of a few dedicated part-time volunteers can go a long way to accomplish the overall mission.
