How does the Naval Academy count toward retirement?

I'm thinking about joining the Naval Academy and was wondering how my time there could count toward retirement. Does attending the academy shorten the time needed for military retirement benefits? Would love to know how it all works.

Time spent at the Naval Academy, or at any U.S. service academy, does not count toward military retirement. This is because while you are a student at the academy, you are primarily considered an undergraduate student, though you hold the rank of midshipman.

After you graduate from the Academy, you will be commissioned as an Ensign in the Navy or Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. From that point on, your service time begins to accumulate. The minimum service requirement post-graduation is typically 5 years, but this can vary depending on the career field you select.

While service time begins after graduation, it's worth noting that the years spent at the Naval Academy provide valuable training, experience, and education, which set the foundation for your military career.

For military retirement benefits, you must serve a minimum of 20 years. So, if you're hoping for a faster route to military retirement benefits, attending a service academy will not necessarily provide a "shortcut." Remember that military retirement is vested at the 20-year point, and a career in the military, whether it starts at the Academy or not, is a significant commitment, not to be taken lightly.

It's important to thoroughly research and contemplate the commitment required before making a decision to attend a service academy. The academies offer an unparalleled education and opportunity to serve your country, but they also require a significant commitment.