Basic Enlisted Submarine School

Located on Naval Submarine Base New London (NAVSUBASE NLON) in Groton, New London County, Connecticut, the school is an eight-week introduction to the basic theory, construction and operation of nuclear-powered submarines.

The course includes instruction on shipboard organization, submarine safety and escape procedures.

[1] This program requires passing a physical and mental screening.

As of 2015[update], BESS is open to female sailors, including current sailors who wish to join the submarine force by completing the two-month program.

[2] The Navy operates three high risk trainers at New London that sub school classes attend in random order.

A student at Basic Enlisted Submarine School (BESS), repairs a simulated engine room leak in the school's damage control wet trainer at Naval Submarine Base New London.