What are the terms of the new national service?

According to the Ministry of the Armed Forces, the objectives of the new national service include:

• to strengthen the armed forces-nation link;
• strengthen the country’s resilience;
• adapt our defense model to the threats of tomorrow.

Three major families of missions are proposed:

1. protect the territory;
2. support the day-to-day functioning of armies;
3. provide expertise in technical or specialized fields.

The firsts incorporations will take place between september and november 2026.

Young people aged 18 to 25, who volunteer to join this system, can apply since January 12 to the various armies (Air and Space Army, National Navy, Army).

How to apply for the new national service?

You can apply:

• on the sites of recruitment of the armies: army, National Navy, Air and Space Forces ;
• via the dedicated number 09 70 84 51 51 (non-premium call number);
• by making an appointment in the Armed Forces Information and Recruitment Center (cirfa) of your department ;
• following the information transmitted during the Defense and Citizenship Day (renamed “mobilization day”).

The candidate's path to national service consists of the following steps:

1. submission of the application file;
2. pre-selection: assessment of the candidate's profile, skills and motivations;
3. medical examination and clearance check.

Then, for the successful applicants:

1. initial military training of 1 month;
2. unit mission for 9 months;
3. integration for 5 years at the availability reserveat the end of the national service.

During this first recruitment session, one reply to applications will be made no later than 1^er july. This will allow young people to reorient themselves if they are not selected. Indeed, the main admission phase of Parcoursup will then not be completed.

Mainly aimed at young people aged 18-19, the national voluntary service is part of Parcoursup and can be carried out in the context of a gap year. Each young person called up can keep the assignment wish they have obtained or apply for Parcoursup by valuing the experience they have acquired.

How does the national service work?

The national service lasts 10 months (1 month of initial training and 9 months in unit).

Depending on the positions available, as well as the appetites and qualifications of each, the armies will offer to the conscripts of the national service one or more positions before the incorporation. Then, it will not be possible to change positions during the assignment, except for exceptions.

The missions will take place only on national territory (metropolitan and overseas), with no possible departure in external operations or in conflict zones.

Material advantages are made available to the conscripts of the national service:

• one balance of at least €800 gross per month (excluding any premiums);
• one SNCF “military” card with 75% discount on national lines;
• the coverage of food and accommodation costs during the entire duration of service.

The FAQ of the Ministry of the Armed Forces on the national service provides answers to different questions you may have. Can I apply without a bachelor's degree? Can I apply if I refuse to carry a weapon? Will I be able to go home on weekends? What level of sport is required? Etc.