Selective Service/Military Options

Selective Service

Attention all 17 & 18 year old men: remember that when you turn 18, it is your civic responsibility to register with Selective Service.

Registering with Selective Service is a federal law and those who fail to register may be denied student loans, job training, government jobs, and driver's licenses in most states.

You can get a Selective Service registration card at your local post office or register online. If you have any questions regarding registration, please speak with your school counselor. 

Military Options for the High School Student

There are 6 branches of the Military: U.S. Air Force (USAF), U.S. Army (USA), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), U.S. Navy (USN) and U.S. Space Force (USSF). It is advised to learn more about each branch prior to making any decisions. Once you know which branch your are considering, contact a recruiter.

The Reserve Officer's Training  Corps (ROTC) is an opportunity to study and serve our country as an officer after the completion of a four year college degree. It is one way to reduce the cost of attending a higher education institution. ROTC is offered at more than 1,700 colleges and universities. 

Students can attend a military service academy. Each branch has a four year university that offers full scholarships, including the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Acceptance into these academies is highly competitive. It is advised to research these academies as early as possible in your high school career. The application process requires numerous steps to complete, including a nomination by a US Representative or US Senator, medical examination and fitness assessment. Deadlines are firm. 

Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program (RIRP)/National Guard

This NYS program was developed in the interest of recruiting and retaining quality soldiers, airmen, marines, and sailors for the State Military Forces.  This program will pay the cost of your tuition.  The actual amount of the award is based on the tuition cost minus available financial aid (TAP, PELL, Employer Assistance, etc.)  The calendar year award is based on the SUNY maximum in-state tuition.  If the SUNY tuition rate increases, so will the maximum award under this program.  Any other charges, such as books, academic fees, or room and board are your responsibility, so plan your finances accordingly.