How old must applicants be for the Special Operations (SO) contract?

Applicants for the Special Operations (SO) contract must be 28 years old. This age requirement is in place to ensure that candidates possess a level of maturity and life experience that is deemed suitable for the challenges and responsibilities associated with special operations roles. The nature of these positions often requires a heightened sense of judgment, decision-making skills, and the ability to withstand intense physical and psychological stress, which may be better developed by this age.

While candidates below this age might still have the physical abilities, the additional years of experience often contribute to better leadership qualities, resilience, and problem-solving skills necessary for success in these demanding roles. Thus, the age requirement of 28 aligns with the Navy's assessment of optimal readiness and suitability for the high-stakes environment of special operations.