Foreign Language and Culture Program

Program Application Process Walkthrough

The Navy Reserve Foreign Language and Culture Pilot Program has been expanded to include all actively drilling Sailors!!

This outstanding program authorizes Navy drilling reservists a bonus payment for specified language and culture studies at taken at accredited local and state colleges or universities.  Navy Reserve Sailors can get paid for simply taking a culture or language class while acquiring critical skills that can lead to foreign area specialization or language proficiency pay. 

Enlisted Sailors must have at least 24 months remaining on their service contract at completion of the last course approved for the program. Officers must sign a page 13 agreeing to continue Navy Reserve service for 24 continuous months following the end of the last course approved for the program.

The total bonus amount paid to an individual participant shall not exceed $5,000 in the fiscal year the course is completed. The following award levels are authorized for all drilling Reservists:

Bonus Amount and Discipline:

$1,250:         100-200 (or equivalent) level course in an eligible culture

$1,500:         300 and higher (or equivalent) level course in an eligible culture

$2,000:         100-200 (or equivalent) level course in an eligible language

$2,500:         300 and higher (or equivalent) level course in an eligible language

Refer to OPNAVINST 1550.11 for program guidelines and approved courses and contact your Educational Services Officer or Command Career Counselor to apply.  For CAC-enabled specifics, visit CNRFC N7.