Do Naval Academy Graduates Have to Attend Basic Training?

I'm considering the Naval Academy but wondered about the training requirements after graduating. Do those who finish at the academy still need to go through basic training, or is that covered during their time at the academy?

The United States Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, Maryland, prepares its midshipmen for leadership roles in the United States Navy and Marine Corps through a rigorous four-year program. This program combines robust academic schedules and development in military leadership, which incorporates significant physical and military training.

As such, those who graduate from the Naval Academy already receive extensive military training throughout their time at the academy, including the Plebe Summer program, which is a challenging seven-week training regime conducted before the freshman year. This program aims to transform civilians into Midshipmen.

Following graduation, USNA graduates are commissioned as Officers—either as Ensigns in the Navy or Second Lieutenants in the Marines. Since these ranks are officer positions, graduates won't need to attend basic training, which is designed for enlisted members. Essentially, their time at the Naval Academy serves as their "basic training," preparing them for their upcoming service as Naval or Marine Officers.

After graduation, depending on their service selection, USNA graduates might attend further professional training in their specialty areas or warfare communities. For example, those who select careers as Naval Aviators will subsequently attend flight training, while those who select Surface Warfare attend the Basic Division Officer Course (BDOC).

Remember that attending the United States Naval Academy entails a significant commitment—you're required to serve a minimum of five years of active-duty service following graduation. So, it's crucial to factor this into your decision-making process.