7 Steps To Commission Into The Navy

Joining the Navy can be a life-changing decision, offering a chance to serve one's country, develop valuable skills, and see the world. For those interested in becoming an officer in the Navy, the process of commissioning can seem daunting. However, by breaking down the steps and understanding the requirements, aspiring officers can navigate the process with confidence.

The United States Navy offers various pathways to commission, including the United States Naval Academy, Navy Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), and Officer Candidate School (OCS). Regardless of the path chosen, the following seven steps provide a general outline of the commissioning process.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible for a Navy commission, applicants must meet certain basic requirements. These include:

Being a U.S. citizen
Being between the ages of 17 and 29 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
Having a high school diploma or equivalent
Meeting physical fitness standards
Passing a background check

Applicants must also meet specific requirements for their chosen commissioning pathway, such as GPA and test score requirements for the Naval Academy or ROTC.

Academic Requirements

The Navy looks for applicants with a strong academic record, particularly in math and science. For the Naval Academy, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, while ROTC applicants typically require a minimum GPA of 2.0. OCS applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

Step 2: Choose a Commissioning Pathway

The Navy offers several commissioning pathways, each with its own requirements and benefits. These include:

United States Naval Academy: A four-year undergraduate program that leads to a bachelor's degree and a commission as an ensign.
Navy Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC): A four-year program that allows students to attend college while receiving Navy training and a commission as an ensign.
Officer Candidate School (OCS): A 12-week training program for college graduates who want to become officers in the Navy.

Each pathway has its own requirements and benefits, and applicants should research and choose the one that best fits their goals and qualifications.

NROTC Scholarship

The Navy offers a four-year scholarship to NROTC students, covering tuition and fees, as well as a stipend for books and living expenses. In return, students commit to serving four years in the Navy after graduation.

Step 3: Prepare for the Commissioning Process

Once an applicant has chosen a commissioning pathway, they must prepare for the process. This includes:

Taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
Passing a physical fitness test
Completing a medical examination
Gathering required documents, such as transcripts and test scores

Applicants should also prepare themselves physically and mentally for the challenges of Navy training.

Physical Fitness Test

The Navy requires applicants to pass a physical fitness test, which includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. Applicants should prepare for the test by starting a regular exercise program.

Step 4: Apply for a Commission

Once an applicant has met the requirements and prepared for the commissioning process, they can apply for a commission. This includes:

Submitting an application through the Navy's online portal
Providing required documents, such as transcripts and test scores
Completing a background check

Applicants should ensure that their application is complete and accurate, as this will affect their chances of being selected for a commission.

Background Check

The Navy requires applicants to undergo a background check, which includes a review of their credit history, employment history, and any past criminal activity. Applicants should ensure that their background is clean and free of any issues that could affect their eligibility for a commission.

Step 5: Complete Officer Training

Once an applicant has been selected for a commission, they must complete officer training. This includes:

Attending the Naval Academy or OCS
Completing a training program that covers Navy history, core values, and leadership skills
Learning about the Navy's organization and structure

Officer training is designed to prepare new officers for the challenges of leading in the Navy.

Officer Candidate School

OCS is a 12-week training program for college graduates who want to become officers in the Navy. The program includes training in leadership, navigation, and tactics, as well as physical fitness and drill and ceremony.

Step 6: Receive a Commission

After completing officer training, new officers are commissioned as ensigns in the Navy. This includes:

Taking the oath of office
Receiving a commissioning certificate
Being pinned with the rank of ensign

Receiving a commission is a significant milestone in an officer's career, marking their transition from civilian to military life.

Commissioning Ceremony

The commissioning ceremony is a formal event that marks an officer's transition from civilian to military life. The ceremony includes the oath of office, the presentation of a commissioning certificate, and the pinning of the rank of ensign.

Step 7: Serve in the Navy

After receiving a commission, new officers begin their service in the Navy. This includes:

Reporting to their first duty station
Completing any additional training or certifications
Serving in a leadership role as an officer in the Navy

Serving in the Navy requires a commitment to the Navy's core values and a willingness to lead and serve.

Navy Core Values

The Navy's core values are honor, courage, and commitment. These values are the foundation of the Navy's culture and are expected to be upheld by all officers and enlisted personnel.

Navy Commissioning Image Gallery

What are the basic requirements for a Navy commission?

The basic requirements for a Navy commission include being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 29, having a high school diploma or equivalent, meeting physical fitness standards, and passing a background check.

What are the different commissioning pathways in the Navy?

The Navy offers several commissioning pathways, including the United States Naval Academy, Navy Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), and Officer Candidate School (OCS).

What is the oath of office for a Navy commission?

The oath of office for a Navy commission is a promise to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and to obey the orders of the President and the officers appointed over them.