Navy SEAL

Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, the Navy SEALs are a nimble, elite maritime military force suited for all aspects of unconventional warfare. In this role, you will provide immediate military relief in crises around the world. Your duties as a SEAL may include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting insertions and extractions by sea, air or land to accomplish covert, Special Warfare/Special Operations missions
• Capturing high-value enemy personnel and terrorists around the world
• Collecting information and intelligence through special reconnaissance missions
• Carrying out small-unit, direct-action missions against military targets
• Performing underwater reconnaissance and the demolition of natural or man-made obstacles prior to amphibious landings

SEALs operate not only as highly capable individuals, but also as members of tightly knit teams. Together, they train and work in all manner of environments, including desert and urban areas, mountains and woodlands, and jungle and arctic conditions. Typical missions may involve insertion into a combat objective by any number of means: parachute, submarine, helicopter, high-speed boat, foot patrol or by a combat swimmer insertion.

After the initial 7-9 week Recruit Training Command (also known as Boot Camp), this intensive training is designed to push you to your physical and mental limits. If you’re up to the task, you’ll emerge in incredible physical shape and possess the necessary confidence, determination and teamwork to succeed in any combat environment.

SEAL training has been described as brutal, preparing you for the extreme physical and mental challenges of SEAL missions. Training consists of:

• 12+ months of initial training that includes Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL BUD/S School, Parachute Jump School and SEAL Qualification Training (SQT)
• 18 months of pre-deployment training and intensive specialized training

Find out more about SEAL Training.

Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance.

For those with further leadership aspirations and a college degree, Navy SEAL Officer roles are available, providing the opportunity to lead and train others.

Post-Service Opportunities

It’s also important to note that specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.

Members of the Naval Special Operations community have many unique opportunities to advance their knowledge. Navy training provides everything from the fundamentals of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) to knowledge of chemical and biological warfare, military tactics, deep-sea diving or a number of other tactical military procedures.

Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy training in this field can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education.

You may also continue your education through undergraduate degree opportunities like the Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance and the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

No college degree is required to become a Navy SEAL, but the standards of qualification require the kind of mental and physical fortitude that few possess.

Upon joining the Navy, you must:

• Meet specific eyesight requirements: 20/40 best eye; 20/70 worst eye; correctable to 20/25 with no color blindness
• Meet the minimum Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) score: GS+MC+EI=170 or VE+MK+MC+CS=220 or VE+AR=110 MC=50
• Be 28 years of age or younger
• Pass a physical examination required for divers
• Be a U.S. citizen and eligible for security clearance

SEALs should have good study habits and learning skills, and knowledge of arithmetic and basic algebra. Mechanical skills are also valuable. You should be in excellent physical condition and able to endure rigorous physiological demands. Strong swimming skills and the ability to withstand fatigue are essential. Good use of your hands is required.

Important personal traits for SEALs include maturity, self assurance and self confidence. You should be willing to follow orders and able to work under stressful or hazardous conditions.

Visit the Navy SWCC PST Calculator to review the current minimum Navy Physical Screening Test (PST) requirements for Navy Challenge Programs.

NOTE: You should consult your physician or other health-care professional before starting any exercise regime or other fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. This is particularly true if you (or your family) have a history of medical illnesses or ailments that could be made worse by a change in physical activity. Do not start a fitness program if your physician or health-care provider advises against it.

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.

There are no part-time jobs as a Navy Reserve Sailor in this role. Go back to Careers to find other jobs that have a Reserve component. You can also find out more about what life is like as a Reserve Sailor in the Navy.