Frequently Asked Questions
What is the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps?
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a 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 Naval Sea Cadet Corps insignia. There are over 300 units in operation in almost every state of the union, as well as Puerto Rico and Guam, with over 10,000 young Americans participating. The Naval Sea Cadet Corps affords equal opportunity for participation to all American youth, without regard to race, color, religion, gender or disability.
How old must I be to join the Sea Cadets?
You are eligible to join if you have reached your 13th birthday and have not yet reached your 18th birthday. Younger people (10 through 13 years old) may be eligible to join the League Cadets.
What are the requirements of membership?
All prospective cadets must be a U.S. citizen, unmarried, enrolled in school, have a 2.0 grade point average, have parent consent, and possess good moral character. In addition, the individual must be interested in the program and be prepared to attend drills regularly. You need to be ready to have fun and be willing to learn new things. Visit our "Become A Cadet" section of our website to learn more about Eligibility Requirements.
What about medical exams?
For Cadet Application:
For Adult Leader Application:
Will I have to pay dues?
The initial enrollment fee is $350. The annual re-enrollment fee is $170.
Must I buy my own uniform?
Surplus U.S. Navy uniforms are made available to the NSCC and NLCC. These uniforms, in turn, are made available to cadets as part of the initial first year fees. Uniform needs that cannot be met through this source may be purchased at the Vanguard. Attempts are made to supply uniform items, but some items, due to size or availability, may be the responsibility of the parents to provide (sometimes boots or shoes). As cadets grow out of their uniforms, they will work with the supply officer to get replacements. If any piece is lost, it will be the responsibility of the parents to replace.
Will Sea Cadet training detract from my school work?
Not likely. The St. Augustine Battalion usually meets one weekend per month and the last Sunday of the month, with additional opportunities for activities through training choices. Instruction is designed to supplement school work. Normally, training away from home is conducted only during the school vacation periods (i.e., recruit training and advanced training). Our experience is that the self-discipline learned in the program carries over to the academic experience with cadet grade average going up one letter grade.
What do the Sea Cadets learn?
Sea Cadets study a broad range of subjects. Some are designed to help them become better adult citizens, others teach them the importance of strong maritime forces. They also study naval history, customs and traditions, seamanship, navigation and similar subjects which would help their chances for promotion should they decide to join one of the sea services. Cadets are also exposed to skills and experiences that can expand their view of what is available to them in the future.
What are my chances for promotion?
Promotion within the Sea Cadets is based upon merit. Promising young men and women, upon fulfilling certain successive qualifications and requirements, are given increasingly responsible positions and duties and are encouraged to develop qualities of leadership.
Who sponsors the Sea Cadets?
The St. Augustine Battalion of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps is sponsored by the Navy League of the United States, St. Augustine-Palm Coast Council. Additional funding comes from generous members of our community.
Who instructs the Sea Cadets?
Sea Cadets are instructed by qualified volunteer adult leaders willing to devote their time and knowledge to this worthwhile activity. Some Sea Cadet officers are veterans, reservists, or active duty members of the US Navy as well as other branches of the military.
Can I go to boot camp in the summer or winter?
Yes. Newly enrolled Sea Cadets are required to attend a 9 day to two-week recruit training at a military "boot camp". 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 valued instruction of a maritime nature. Cadets are responsible for travel costs and arrangements to training, but at times car-pooling can be arranged with other cadets.
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 one or two-week advanced training aboard Navy and Coast Guard vessels ranging from small harbor craft to large nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
What training is available aboard ship?
Sea Cadets are trained in basic seamanship, damage control, watch-standing, firefighting, and other nautical skills. These types of trainings are considered Advance Trainings and are and skill dependent.
Are there advanced training courses for Sea Cadets?
Yes. In addition to advanced training aboard naval vessels, Sea Cadets may attend advanced trainings in areas such as: aviation, construction, dive, culinary, leadership academies, basic and advanced medical, law enforcement, JAG, firefighting, photojournalism, safety and marksmanship, seamanship, SEAL, SWCC, EOD and other trainings.
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 International Exchange Program in Canada, Bermuda, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Sweden, and many other countries.
How are Sea Cadets selected for the Exchange Program?
Applications must be completed for an exchange cadet opportunity. A committee from NHQ will review the applications and make the selection.
Will Sea Cadet training interfere with summer employment?
No. 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 units are organized along military lines, their main purpose is to foster good citizenship and interest and appreciation of our nation's maritime services.
What is the U.S. Navy League Cadet Corps?
What's the next step, if I am interested in becoming a Sea Cadet?
Please go and fill out our Recruiting Form (click here). A member of our recruiting team will be in contact with you soon. We will arrange a date/time to meet with you and your parents so that you can meet us and see for yourself what the NSCC is all about. We look forward to meeting you and your family, and possibly welcoming you to our unit.