Sea Cadets Recruit Training
In the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC), all new cadets must complete Recruit Training (RT)—often called boot camp—as their very first major training evolution before they are eligible to attend any Advanced Training (AT).
Recruit Training is a mandatory 9-to-14-day introductory program for the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps that teaches military routine, discipline, and basic maritime skills
Sea Cadets Advanced Trainings
Sea Cadets offers hands-on Advanced Trainings across the country where teens explore real careers – like aviation, medicine, engineering, space, seamanship, and more.
Led by military and industry pros, these immersive programs build leadership, confidence, and life-changing experiences that go far beyond the classroom.
1. Mandatory Prerequisites & Coursework
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Recruit Training (RT) / Boot Camp: If this is your first summer training, you must attend and graduate from Recruit Training (typically a 7-to-14-day indoctrination camp).
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Enrollment Timeline: You must be enrolled in the USNSCC at least 6 weeks prior to the start of the training.
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Polaris Advancement Course (PAC): You must pass the E-1/Indoctrination PAC before registering for or attending Recruit Training. Completing the E-2/Seaman Apprentice PAC beforehand is also strongly encouraged.
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Physical Readiness Test (PRT): You must pass a PRT (which includes push-ups, planks, and a 1-mile run) within 3 months of enrollment
2. Gear and Uniforms
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The Sea Bag: You are responsible for obtaining the required uniform items and gear listed on the official Sea Bag List provided by the Commanding Officer of the Training Contingent (COTC). Gently used Navy uniforms are often accepted or swapped through local units.
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Medical Exam: All cadets must have a current physical examination (similar to a high-school sports physical) cleared before participating.
3. Travel and Logistics
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Unaccompanied Minor Policies: If you are traveling by commercial airline or other transit to a distant training site, check carrier rules. Many airlines have strict policies or age limits for unaccompanied minors, and training staff may not always be available to act as a direct travel escort. Always verify travel plans with your unit's Commanding Officer and the COTC before booking tickets.
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Costs & Fees: Enrollment and event/training fees vary depending on the specific location and type of camp.
4. What to Expect Mentally
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High-Paced & Demanding: Recruit training introduces you to strict military routine, discipline, teamwork, and physical conditioning.
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Mindset: Former cadets and staff often note that taking things "meal by meal" or focusing on short-term milestones helps push through the most challenging parts of boot camp.
Complete All Necessary Forms:
There are certain forms that are always required for Advanced Trainings.
Click on each form to view or download.
The Training Officer will get this form from the Cadet Application filled out to enroll or renew in the Sea Cadets. The form must be dated within 365 days of the training the cadet is attending.
The Medical History form must be filled out by the parent or guardian, signed and dated within 30 days of the training the cadet is attending.
The Medical Exam form is the medical physical exam form. This form is filled out, signed, and dated by a medical professional. The form must be dated within 365 days of the training the cadet is attending.
The Medical Supplemental form documents any medications the cadet takes. This form is filled out, signed, and dated by a medical professional and the parent or guardian. The form must be dated within 30 days of the training the cadet is attending. If the cadet does not take any medications, write N/A on the form or use the following form for a preset N/A form.
If the cadet does not take any medications, use this form for a preset N/A form.
The Accommodations form is filled out if a cadet requires special accommodations. This form must be filled out by the parent or guardian, signed and dated within 365 days of the training the cadet is attending. Accommodations must be approved by the unit Commanding Officer, Regional Director, and National Headquarters Representative. If the cadet does not need any accommodations, write N/A on the form or use the following form for a preset N/A form.
If the cadet does not need any accommodations, use this form for a preset N/A form.