Does it Require Any Type of Degree to Become a U.S. Navy Seal?
The Navy Seals are an elite force within the United States Navy that are trained to be at the height of human physical and military strength. Thus, becoming a Navy Seal requires that you meet certain criteria and physical standards. However, having a degree is not listed as one of those criteria. But a degree will help increase the chances of being accepted into the training program.
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Basic Criteria
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Under United States law, the Navy Seal program can only accept male candidates. One of the most important criteria is the fact that the candidate must be a U.S. citizen. In addition, candidates must be less than 28 years of age and currently serving as a member of the United States Navy.
Tests
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Before being accepted into the Navy Seal training program, candidates must pass a few preliminary exams. The first is an eye exam that requires the candidate pass with 20/40 in his best eye, 20/70 in his worst eye and vision correctable to 20/25. In addition, the candidate must meet the minimum Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), with scores in the General Sciences, Mechanical Comprehension and Electronics Information sections totaling 165 or higher, and Verbal, Mechanical Comprehension and Coding Speed sections totaling above 220. The final test is a physical examination required for divers.
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Physical Requirements
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All candidates must pass the complete Physical Screening Test. Many consider this test to be one of the most difficult physical exams within the entire United States military. This test consists of first swimming 500 yards within 12-1/2 minutes. This is followed by 10 minutes of rest and then 42 push-ups within two minutes. Again, the candidate is allowed to rest for two minutes then must perform 50 sit-ups within two minutes. After another two-minute rest period, the candidate must perform six pull-ups with no time limit; then after a 10-minute break, the candidate must run 1-1/2 miles within 11 minutes to complete the physical exam.
Final Underwater Exam
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If a candidate has qualified up until this point, he is allowed to take the final exam. This last requirement, before accepting a Navy Seal contract, is the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL BUD/S physical fitness screening test. Candidates applying to Boot Camp and the Delayed Entry Program must pass this exam. After passing, candidates are then eligible to receive a Navy Seal contract.
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References
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