Qualified enlistees with no prior military service can enter the Navy Reserve through specialized dedicated Enlisted and Officer programs. These programs are designed for specialized skills and/or ratings that the Navy Reserve considers to be in high demand.

APG (Advanced Pay Grade)
High demand skills could mean a higher pay grade. If you are employed in a civilian occupation that corresponds with an undermanned Navy Reserve rating, you can enter the Navy Reserve at an advanced pay grade (higher pay rate than normally assigned to a specific job). To enter through this program, you must have a qualifying ASVAB score and be physically qualified. A three-year enlistment is also required.

To qualify, you must be currently employed or have been employed within the past 12 months in civilian fields comparable to the ratings for which you are applying. You should also not have prior service, active or inactive, within two previous years in ratings convertible to the ratings for which you are applying. You must also show sufficient documentation of professional and supervisory experience on a resumé, along with employer and personal recommendations.

After enlisting, you will be assigned the permanent pay grade of E-3. Go to
Pay Charts to learn more about pay.

Accelerated Initial Accession Program (AIA)
Jumpstart your career. The Navy Reserve Accelerated Initial Accession (AlA) program allows men and women without prior service to enlist in the Navy Reserve to fill nondesignated Fireman (FN), Seaman (SN), and Airman (AN) positions. This enlistment option enables you to eventually qualify for one of several Navy ratings (skill specialties) through on-the-job apprenticeship training.

Officers: The Highest Honor

The Navy Reserve relies heavily on our Officers at every level of operations and management. U.S. Navy Officers are some of the most well-respected men and women who serve our country. Superior benefits and excellent credentials are just a few enticements for becoming an Officer. If you’re a student or graduate of a four-year college or university who possesses leadership skills and determination, you may be eligible to become an Officer in the Navy Reserve.

As an Officer in the Navy Reserve, you will lead men and women who have pledged to defend their nation. It's more than a responsibility. It's an honor of the highest order. For direct commissioned Officers, the initial commitment is eight years of part-time service. Over this period, you will continue to develop leadership, teambuilding, and problem-solving abilities unmatched in the civilian world or workplace.

Navy Reserve Medical Program
Physicians, nurses and dentists are highly sought after in the Navy Reserve. If you hold one of these positions in civilian life, you can enter the Reserve as an Officer, and you may be eligible for advanced rank and pay.

As a health-care professional, you know what it's like to make a difference in someone’s life. By joining the Navy Reserve, you can make a significant difference in your life as you proudly care for the men and women who protect our shores. Though your service is just part-time, you’ll be able to take your medical expertise to new levels as you experience a diversity of intensified academic, clinical, and operational settings.

As a newly commissioned Officer, you will attend the two-week Direct Commission Officer Indoctrination Course in Pensacola, Florida. This course will teach you the history, traditions, and structure of the Navy and Navy Reserve.

Direct Appointment (Officer)
Pride. Professionalism. Prestige. If you are a college-educated professional in one of the specialty areas sought by the Navy Reserve, you may receive a direct appointment as a commissioned Navy Officer.

Direct commissions are available to U.S. citizens with professional expertise in the following fields: Engineering, Civil Engineering, Public Affairs, Clergy, Cryptology, Intelligence, Oceanography, Merchant Marine and Business Management.

As a newly commissioned Officer, you will attend the two-week Direct Commission Officer Indoctrination Course in Pensacola, Florida. This course will teach you the history, traditions, and structure of the Navy and Navy Reserve.