10/20/2026
La gazettedu Var
La gazettedu Var

A First Professional Experience for Young People

The Marine nationale launches its recruitment campaign for 16-25s, offering introductory courses and voluntary service.

TEBy The Editorial TeamJournalist 19 October 2026 Reading time: 2 min
Une première expérience professionnelle pour les jeunes
Une première expérience professionnelle pour les jeunes© La Gazette du Var
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The Marine nationale has launched its recruitment campaign for 16–25-year-olds in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur, offering introductory courses and a 10-month voluntary service.

Whether for a first discovery alongside studies or an immersive professional experience, these programs offer a gateway to the military and maritime world. Registration for several centers is open until early October.

The Préparation militaire Marine (PMM)

For young people aged 16 to 21 wishing to discover the universe of the Marine without interrupting their schooling, the Préparation militaire Marine (PMM) offers a tailored formula. The program takes place over 12 Saturdays during the school year and is completed by an intensive five-day period in the heart of the Toulon naval base.

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This initial training allows participants to don the uniform and learn the basics of a sailor's life. Participants are introduced to seamanship, target shooting practice, and strengthen their physical condition through various sports activities.

The intensive course in Toulon is the highlight of the year, with visits to prestigious units like the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle or submarines, and meetings with the crews. Training also includes obtaining a coastal boat license and participating in patriotic ceremonies.

Supervised by experienced reservists, this experience aims to develop cohesion, self-surpassing, and openness to the world.

The Service national volontaire

For 18–25-year-olds, students looking for a gap year, or young people seeking a rewarding first experience, the Marine offers the Service national. It is a 10-month voluntary commitment under military status, offering full, paid immersion.

Volunteers receive an allowance of €800 per month and are housed, fed, and clothed. They also benefit from a 75% reduction on SNCF train tickets.

The pathway begins with one month of initial training to master the basics of military life, followed by nine months of assignment in a unit. The missions offered are varied, ranging from administrative and logistical support to technical positions (mechanics, IT) or catering.

This experience is designed as a true professional springboard, providing concrete skills and a significant line on a CV, which can even lead to a longer-term commitment.

Registration Details

For those in Hautes-Alpes (Gap), Alpes-Maritimes (Antibes, Cannes, Grasse, Nice), and Vaucluse (Carpentras), applications are accepted until November 7, 2026. Regarding the Service national, registration is open until October 31.

To obtain information and apply for one of these two programs, young people are invited to visit the website lamarinerecrute.gouv.fr.

Une première expérience professionnelle pour les jeunes

Article from the print edition of La Gazette du Var