U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps

United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, 2300 Wilson Blvd, Suite 200, Arlington, VA 22201

mapUnited States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, 2300 Wilson Blvd, Suite 200, Arlington, VA 22201

About

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a military youth program where cadets experience military drills, training and boot camp, recruit orientation, Navy League Orientation, and PT (physical training). Cadets take part in activities such as aviation, airman training, FAA ground school, aviation maintenance, SCUBA, sailing, small boat operations, seamanship and shipboard operations, Fleet Week and overnight shipboard experiences, and a submarine seminar. Additional hands-on trainings include robotics, drones, cybersecurity, medical skills, public safety activities such as firefighting, marksmanship, search and rescue, and maritime interdiction, as well as special operations and trade and technical skills like construction, welding, culinary work, and vehicle maintenance. Cadets also plan drills, mentor peers, and participate in Advanced Trainings across the country that are led by military and industry professionals.

• Ages: 10–18 years old
• Schedule: Cadet units typically meet one weekend per month or one night per week during the school year, with training away from home conducted during school vacation periods.

The program includes two tracks: the Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC) for middle school students and the Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) for high school students. League Cadets advance through ranks that mirror the Navy and Merchant Marines, and Sea Cadets advance through ranks that mirror the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. Cadets wear uniforms, work as teams, and adhere to core values of honor, respect, commitment, and service, and cadets are not required to join the military. Eighth graders may join the NSCC after March 1 of their eighth grade year to participate in summer training.

The mission of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps is to build leaders of character by imbuing in cadets the highest ideals of honor, respect, commitment, and service. All volunteers undergo regular background checks, cadets are under adult supervision throughout training, and safety is stated as the number one priority. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), no qualified person is excluded because of a disability and reasonable accommodations are granted where necessary.

Parent and cadet testimonials describe increased confidence, fitness, stamina, organization, self-motivation, leadership skills, independence, punctuality, discipline, and appreciation, as well as camaraderie, teamwork, shared purpose, and a sense of purpose for their children. Parents report observing their cadets taking on challenges with determination, learning the value of service, respect, and perseverance, and developing quality leadership skills and confidence.

Last updated July 25, 2026.

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