The training curriculum begins at the Naval Special Warfare Preparatory School (NSW Prep) in Great Lakes, Illinois.

 

The two-month training period begins with a Physical Screening Test. The goal: Improve the candidates' physical readiness for the rigorous activity they will face at Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S).

 

The NSW Prep ends with a modified Physical Screening Test (PST). The test is a 1000-meter swim, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and a four-mile run.

 

The minimum standards for this expanded test are as follows:

 

1000-meter swim - with fins (22 minutes or under)

Push-ups: at least 70 (Two-minute time limit)

Pull-ups: at least 10 (No time limit)

Curl-ups: at least 60 (Two-minute time limit)

Four-mile run - with shoes + pants (31 minutes or under)

 

Candidates who don't pass the longer, more intense test are removed from training and reclassified to other jobs in the Navy.

 

Use the PST Calculator to enter your most recent (PST) scores.

 

The NSW Prep utilizes Recruit Training Command pools, indoor and outdoor tracks and other facilities in and around Naval Station Great Lakes. Its staff and curriculum are under the Naval Special Warfare Center.

 

 

COURSE CURRICULUM: PHYSICAL TRAINING AND MENTAL PREP

 

Physical training

Swimming

Running

Strength and conditioning

Basic underwater skills

Group calisthenics

Academic training

SEAL Ethos

Core values

Exercise science

Nutrition

Mental toughness

Military training

Basic military training

Berthing

Personnel inspections

Phased liberty

Professional development

 

 

COURSE PROGRESSION: ASSESSED BY ABILITY

 

 

The exit standard must be met in order for a student to ship to NSW Prep. Failure to meet the exit standard will result in a drop from the program.

Check-in

Physical/medical assessment

Course introduction

Conditioning

Group physical training (determined by ability level)

Daily academic instruction

Progress tracking

Testing and transfers

Exit standards

Review board

Ship to BUD/S

 

 

ACADEMIC TOPICS: EMPOWERING YOU WITH CONFIDENCE

 

 

Basic swimming techniques

Principles of running

Injury prevention

Rest and recovery

Plyometrics

Strength and conditioning

Knot tying

Stretching

Principles of team building

Running fundamentals

Alcohol and its effects

Nutrition

Supplements

Hypothermia related injuries

Heat related injuries

Cycle of achievement

Mental toughness

Goal setting

Military heritage (aircraft, ships, honors and courtesies)

Core values

Military pay system

Operational risk management

Military rights and responsibilities

Leave and liberty policies

Sexual assault, harrassment, fraternization, and discrimination

Morale, welfare and recreation

 

| Read more about NSW Prep on the SEAL + SWCC Training Forum.