HOW DO CADETS ADVANCE TO THE NEXT RANK?
Cadets advance to the next rank through a combination of coursework, trainings, time in the Sea Cadets (Time in Service or "TIS") and time at a particular rank (Time in Grade or "TIG"). "Coursework" is completed online through the Polaris portal found on the Quarterdeck. Some courses may require an exam. The term "Trainings" means organized, in person multi-day (and typically overnight) camps/sessions. All cadets must complete a "boot camp" or Recruit Training (for League cadets - Navy League Orientation) before qualifying for any of the many Advanced Trainings available nationwide.
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic response, many of these trainings have been offered through online virtual trainings. Currently, there are also limits placed on distance from home and commercial travel.
Members shall not use commercial transportation (air, train, or bus) to travel to trainings or drills. Members may only participate in training evolutions located within 500 miles of their home address. Unit-sponsored field trips shall be limited to 100 miles of the home unit drill site, unless the unit Commanding Officer requests permission in advance of the proposed activity from the cognizant NHQ Rep, via the chain of command.
NSCC ADVANCEMENT
HOW DO I READ THE CHART?
The first column tells you the name of each rank with the starting rank at the top. The next column "Required Time in Rank" tells you how long you have to be in a rank to meet your TIG requirement. If there is a course required to achieve the next rank, it will be listed in the next column and if there is an exam, that is listed next. Finally, if you must attend a training to be that rank, that will be described in the last column.
Example: to be an E1 Recruit, it requires no time in rank, no courses or exam and not trainings. But to be an E2 Apprentice, it requires you to have been a Recruit for 3 months, complete the E1 and E2 PACs - but no exam, and you must attend Recruit Training ("RT").
NLCC ADVANCEMENT
A NOTE ABOUT LEAGUE CADET TRAININGS:
League cadets are not required to attend trainings to promote to the next rank. However, a League cadet MUST attend Navy League Orientation training (NLO) to qualify for any Advanced Trainings offered to League Cadets.