Last Updated: April 11, 2026
U.S. Navy Reserve Application Guide (2025): How to Enlist and Join SELRES
U.S. Navy Reserve at a Glance
- SELRES Strength: ~58,500 Sailors
- Commitment: 1 weekend/month (4 drill periods) + 14 days annual training
- Reserve Centers: ~99 Navy Operational Support Centers (NOSCs) nationwide
- Popular rates: HM (Hospital Corpsman), IT, IS (Intelligence), MA (Master-at-Arms), HT
- Notable: Many Sailors serve as Individual Augmentees (IA), deploying as individual replacements to active-duty units
How to Join the Navy Reserve
Step 1: Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter
Visit navyreserve.com → “Join.” Navy Reserve recruiters are separate from active-duty Navy recruiters. They’ll check which rates have openings at your nearest NOSC.
Step 2: ASVAB and MEPS
Minimum AFQT 31 (diploma) or 50 (GED). Navy uses multiple subtests for rate qualification. Body fat standards apply at MEPS (height/weight or tape measurement).
Step 3: Select Your Rate
Navy jobs are called “rates.” Not every rate is open at every NOSC — you must have a rate available near you. Recruiter shows available rates at NOSCs within commuting distance.
Step 4: Recruit Training Command (RTC)
8 weeks at Naval Station Great Lakes, IL. Must pass swim qualification (50 yards + float). Followed by rate-specific “A School.” USERRA protects your civilian job throughout.
Navy Reserve Pay (2025)
| Rank | Title | Weekend Pay | Annual Training |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 | Seaman Recruit | $244 | $856/2 weeks |
| E-3 | Seaman | $288 | $1,008/2 weeks |
| E-4 | Petty Officer 3rd Class | $319 | $1,120/2 weeks |
| E-5 | Petty Officer 2nd Class | $419 | $1,451/2 weeks |
| E-6 | Petty Officer 1st Class | $458 | $1,610/2 weeks |
Requirements
- Age: 17–39 non-prior service (17 requires parental consent)
- Education: High school diploma preferred; GED with AFQT 50+
- Swim qualification: All Sailors must pass — 50 yards + basic float at RTC
- ASVAB: Minimum AFQT 31 (diploma); rate-specific subtest requirements
Benefits
- TRICARE Reserve Select health insurance
- MGIB-SR up to $439/month for education
- Enlistment bonuses: $5,000–$20,000; HM (Hospital Corpsman) up to $20,000
- HM civilian pathway: Leads directly to EMT, CNA, medical assistant certifications
- Post-9/11 GI Bill after qualifying active orders/deployments
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SELRES and IRR?
SELRES Sailors have active drill obligations (1 weekend/month + AT) and receive drill pay. IRR is a pool of prior-service Sailors with no regular drill obligation and no pay unless mobilized. Most new enlistees join as SELRES.
Can I join the Navy Reserve with no prior military experience?
Yes. Non-prior service goes through full enlistment: ASVAB, MEPS, RTC (8 weeks, Great Lakes), then A School. Typical commitment is 6 years SELRES.
Do Navy Reserve Sailors deploy on ships?
Yes. Sailors can be called for Individual Augmentee (IA) deployments — filling specific billets on ships or shore commands. Medical (HM) and intelligence (IS) rates see higher IA deployment rates. Unit deployments for exercises are also possible.
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