FAQs

WHAT IS OUR PURPOSE?

Every division of the USNSCC is different, but their purpose is the same - to encourage and aid American youth to develop, train them in seagoing skills, and to teach them patriotism, courage, self-reliance and kindred virtues, through organization and cooperation with the Department of the Navy.

HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO JOIN?

Cadets entering the USNSCC (US Naval Sea Cadet Corps) must be between 13 and 18 years old. High school graduates 18 years old may remain in the program until September 30th - with approval. After September 30th, the cadet may then return to the unit as a Midshipman.

Cadets entering the USNLCC (US Navy League Cadet Corps) must be between the ages of 11 and 13 years old. After reaching 13 years old, a League Cadet can enter into the Sea Cadets if prepared.

DO CADETS WEAR UNIFORMS?

Of course! Uniforms are provided by the US Navy League and consist of new and recycled uniforms formerly worn by enlisted men and women. Although uniforms are kept in the cadet's care, all uniforms remain the property of the USNSCC and must be returned in good condition upon leaving or graduating from the program. Name tapes are inexpensive and required for uniforms.

CAN CADETS EARN RIBBONS AND AWARDS?

YES! Ribbons and awards are earned for advancements and trainings. A chart of ribbons can be found on the RESOURCES website listed on the LINKS page. Visit the PHOTOS page to see pictures of past awards ceremonies.

ARE THERE ANY SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR CADETS?

YES! During a cadet's senior year of high school, he or she can apply or be nominated for a number of scholarships. New scholarships are posted frequently and your Division Leader can provide you with that information.

WILL I BE REQUIRED TO ENLIST IN THE ARMED FORCES?

NO! Cadets are not required to enlist in the armed forces after completing the USNSCC program, however, their training and rank in the USNSCC may provide them admittance at a higher rank and pay grade if they do decide to enlist.

CAN FEMALES JOIN TOO?

Absolutely! The USNSCC is comprised of both male and female cadets. Female cadets have different uniform and grooming standards and some physical requirements are different for females. Otherwise, all requirements and participation requirements are the same.

WHEN AND WHERE DO WE MEET AND TRAIN?

Our drill locations are determined by the CO from month to month. We meet (drill) one weekend every month. We welcome anyone interested in becoming a cadet to attend a drill to observe what the USNSCC Louisiana Division is all about. Parents are encouraged to attend at least the first drill with their child, no matter the age of the child.

WHAT ARE CADETS EXPECTED TO DO?

Cadets must meet the following criteria to remain in the program:

    • STAY in school - no drop outs!

    • MAINTAIN satisfactory grades in school (2.5 average)

    • ADVANCE to the next grade - no failures.

    • MAINTAIN satisfactory drill attendance - you must be present if you hope to gain aything from this program.

    • STAY motivated - we cannot help you advance, the effort must come from you

    • CONDUCT yourself in a mature and military manner at all times - no horseplay and/or other conduct considered unbecoming and/or in conflict with the goals and objectives of the UNSCC.

    • STAY out of trouble - no felony convictions.

    • NO promiscuous sexual behavior - cadets cannot become pregnant or cause pregnancy.

    • NO sexual harassment - NONE!

    • NO consumption, possession or sale of alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances - this is cause for immediate release from the program.

    • COMPLY with UNSCC/NLCC Uniform Regulations - be proud of your uniform and wear it with pride.

WHAT DOES IT COST?

There is an initial enrollment fee of $200 for the first year and annual renewal fee of $100 per year.

Additional personal items such as linens, towels, t-shirts, socks, etc., costs approximately $125-175. Some of these items you may already own. With proper care, cadets are able to use the majority of their seabag items for years.

Monthly drills are normally $25 per drill. This fee pays for meals and lodging at the location cadets are berthed.

Recruit Training and Advanced Trainings that are offered throughout the year can range from $100 to $400 per person depending on the training selected.

Our division also arranges local trainings which sometimes include a minimal fee for the use of the facility or instructor.

WHAT TYPES OF TRAININGS ARE AVAILABLE FOR CADETS?

A cadet must be enrolled in the program for at least six (6) weeks prior to attending Basic Recruit Training (BRT). From that point on, cadets are encouraged to attend as many Advanced Trainings as possible (up to three per year) without interferance with home and school responsibilities. See our Advanced Trainings page for more information.