<p>The commitment is generally the same for USMA, USAFA, and USNA. At a minimum, you owe 5 yrs active + 3 inactive reserves (you don’t have to drill but are subject to call up). For the USN, if you choose to become a pilot, your “payback” doesn’t start until you earn your “wings of gold” and then it is more than 5 yrs, depending (I believe) on the aircraft you fly. However, it IS your option to become a pilot. Ships, submariners, and USMC types do 5 yrs. (I should add that the other SAs may also impose longer commitments for certain warfare specialties (i.e., USAF pilot) but I’m not familiar with those so can’t comment).</p>
<p>Note that, as an officer, you always serve at the pleasure of the President. Thus, you aren’t guaranteed to be able to leave the moment you want to (although, in practice, officers are rarely forced to stay on). Also, certain other choices (schools, new orders) can result in a slightly longer commitment – again, it will typically be your choice whether to accept those. </p>
<p>Do not even concern your self with whether certain athletes may or may not be granted a reduced obligation. It has happened about once a decade at USNA – that’s one individual in 10 years out of the 40,000+ graduates during that time. </p>
<p>Finally, I realize that it’s important to understand what your commitment is. But if you’re choosing a SA based (even in part) on how little time you will spend in that service . . . may want to consider whether this is the right career for you.</p>