Levels of entry

There are two distinct routes into the Royal Navy. You can either join as an officer, or as a rating. If you already know which level you’re eligible for, you can take a closer look at life in the Royal Navy, and the different roles that are available. Alternatively, you can browse based on your qualifications and discover what opportunities are open to you.

If you’re new to the Royal Navy and are unsure which role is right for you, view our Levels of Entry: an introduction page.

Ratings

Ratings get the job done. If you’ve left school and want to develop your skills as part of a professional team, learning to be a leader in the process, there are approximately 60 different roles to choose from.

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Officers

Officers are the managers and leaders of the Royal Navy. If you graduated from university, or did well at school, there are 21 potential officer careers available to you. Find out more.

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Current or anticipated academic qualifications

Graduates

Finishing your degree doesn’t have to be the end of an adventure. If you join the Royal Navy as an officer, it will be just the beginning, and you’ll still get to gain further qualifications as part of your naval service.

Leaving school with A levels?

You don’t have to go to university to become a Royal Navy Officer. If you did well at A level, you can take on one of 21 leadership roles, putting your skills to the best possible use, and gaining further qualifications in the process.

Leaving school after your GCSEs?

Further education isn’t for everyone. In the Royal Navy there are careers available to school leavers who want to develop their natural skills and travel the world. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain qualifications on the job or join as an apprentice.

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