Because of the exclusive nature of the NUPOC program and the magnitude of the responsibilities members will take on from a young age, requirements to become a candidate are comprehensive — and competition for acceptance is great.
The NUPOC program is open to both men and women, though only men may be assigned to submarines. Beyond that, the following basic qualification criteria apply.
Age and Health
To be an eligible candidate, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 19 years of age and less than 29 years of age at the time of commissioning (waivers may be available: up to age 31 for Submarine or Surface Warfare Officer positions, up to age 35 for Naval Reactors Engineers or Power School Instructors)
- Meet the physical standards of the Navy
Education
Candidates must be graduates or students of an accredited college or university in the United States or in a United States territory pursuing a BA, BS or MS (preferably majoring in mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry or other technical areas). Those still in school may apply as early as their sophomore year of college and must have:
- Completed one academic year of calculus
- Completed one academic year of calculus-based physics
- A competitive GPA and a grade of “C” or better in all technical courses
NUPOC Interview
All students who apply to the NUPOC program go through a rigorous screening process and are then selected for a personal interview with the Director of Naval Reactors in Washington, D.C.
The first part of the interview process focuses on technical questions from calculus, physics and other technical courses. The majority of the questions are from calculus and physics, and you may be asked questions from other topics in your major. This part of the interview process typically lasts 30–40 minutes and contains two to four major questions per interview.
The second part of the interview process involves meeting with Admiral Kirkland H. Donald, the current director of the Navy Nuclear Propulsion program. During this interview, he will review your transcripts and the evaluations from your technical interviews, and he will assess your communication skills, interests and motivation for the program. Admiral Donald personally selects all Navynuke Officers.
VIP Tour
If you’re a qualified Nuclear Propulsion Officer candidate, the Navy offers a two-day VIP trip that allows you to immerse yourself in this world. Tour the flight deck of an aircraft carrier, or walk through the torpedo room of a submarine. Interact with current and prospective Officers and ask questions. Learn about the rich history of the Navy and its nuclear program. This is a chance to learn firsthand what it may be like to launch your future as a Nuclear Officer in the Navy.
Click here for a NUPOC Application Checklist
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Click here to download the Navy Recruiting Command’s NUPOC Study Guide
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