How to Become a Navy SEAL

Our country is full of heroes. From the firefighters to the food bank volunteers, there are people, both seen and unseen, who make extraordinary differences in our lives. We give mad love to the guys and gals who slip quietly under the radar but that’s not what this particular post is about. This isn’t about the unsung heroes in our world, this is about the stuff legends are made of- stories of tragedy and triumph, determination and danger. This is about none other than the Navy SEALs.
The demise of Osama bin Laden was the finale of carefully planned efforts among military and government intelligence. Many men and women have given their time and their lives in order to fight for our country (both against bin Laden and other modern villains) but in the end, it was the Navy SEALs who delivered the swift end to a ten-year pursuit. The globe shakes with the news and with it, young men everywhere want to know how they too can become Navy SEALs.
The job description of a SEAL is outlined on the US Navy’s official website: “To become a SEAL in the Naval Special Warfare/Naval Special Operations (NSW/NSO) community, you must first go through what is widely considered to be the most physically and mentally demanding military training in existence. Then comes the tough part: the job of essentially taking on any situation or foe that the world has to offer … Conducting clandestine missions behind enemy lines. Capturing enemy targets and intelligence against impossible odds. Bringing a threatening act of sea piracy to resolution in the blink of an eye. When they say ‘The Only Easy Day Was Yesterday,’ it’s a motto backed by legendary achievements.”

Do you think you’re cutout for the life of a SEAL? Are you prepared for the intense training and rigorous qualifications that must be met? As a member of the Navy’s Sea, Air and Land Forces (SEALs) you will learn highly specialized skills which are beyond the reach of standard warfare technique.
To start on your path to become a Navy SEAL, first speak to a recruiter in your area. You will be prepared for entrance into the Navy, which will include different steps depending on your level of education. High school (or GED) completion is typically required for enlisted members and college graduates may enter as commissioned officers.
You need not be fresh out of high school to join the Navy, but there is an age limit. Most applicants must be 28-years old or younger, although age waivers may be considered for those up to 30.
Regardless of your path, you will take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) exam, which measures your military vocational eligibility. To prepare yourself, it’s highly recommended that you pick up a practice book. One of the most popular, Barron’s ASVAB, can usually be found at any bookstore.
Other requirements include US citizenship and nearly flawless vision. According to the Navy’s website, “Your preparation will consist of more than 12 months of initial training … followed by an additional 18 months of pre-deployment training and intensive specialized training.” At this time, women are not eligible to become Navy SEALs.
If you’re serious about becoming a SEAL, start by studying a wide range of subjects in high school and maintaining impeccable physical fitness because the physical screening tests are intense and involved. Diet and exercise are important but just as vital is your mental health. The arduous training and lifestyle of a SEAL leaves little room for anything less than perfect holistic health.
For more information, please visit the US Navy’s official website.