What are Naval Academy students designated as?

Naval Academy students are designated as Midshipmen. This term specifically refers to students enrolled at the United States Naval Academy who are in training to become officers in the Navy or Marine Corps. Midshipmen go through a rigorous academic program combined with military training, preparing them for leadership roles upon graduation.

The distinction in terminology is important because it reflects the unique structure and mission of the Naval Academy compared to other military training institutions. Unlike cadets, who are trained at military academies for the Army or Air Force, midshipmen are focused on naval sciences and the specifics of maritime operations. Additionally, midshipmen are not officers yet; they are students training to become officers, which differentiates them from the officers and recruits, who are already on different stages of their military careers.