What's the commitment like after graduating from the Naval Academy?

I'm considering applying to the Naval Academy, but I'm not exactly sure what the military commitment looks like after graduation. How many years do you typically serve, and what kind of roles might you be expected to take on?

When you graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy, you're expected to serve in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps. The required active duty service commitment is typically five years, but this can be longer depending on the specifics of your role or any additional education you pursue.

As for the kind of roles you may be assigned, it can vary considerably because the military has a broad range of needs. At graduation, midshipmen are commissioned as O-1s, either Ensigns in the Navy or 2nd Lieutenants in the Marine Corps. They hold leadership positions in several areas such as aviation, submarines, surface warfare, Marine Corps, and special warfare.

For instance, if your track was Aviation, you might become a pilot or naval flight officer, or in Submarine Warfare, you might work on nuclear subs. Marine Corps officers could serve in ground combat, aviation, or logistics specialties. It often depends on your interests, performance at the academy, the needs of the service, as well as the specific track and subsequent graduate-level training you choose.

Remember, it's more than a career path; it's a lifestyle commitment, and it is not to be taken lightly due to the high demand and responsibility involved. So, it's important to thoroughly learn about and consider these commitments before making your decision.