Sainte-Foy-de-Peyrolières. The new national service: instructions for use

Today, a new opportunity is available to young people aged 18 to 25 to enrich their personal and professional career: National Service.

This military, voluntary and selective system offers the possibility of carrying out a ten-month immersion within the armed forces, allowing the young people concerned to enhance their sense of commitment, to develop their sense of collective and to acquire recognized professional experience. Useful for young people, the service is also useful for the forces with whom they will actively participate in our defense.

National service thus responds to a reality: the world has changed, threats have increased, and national defense relies on the commitment of all.

National service will begin in September 2026 with a first cohort of around 3,000 conscripts.

The system will then gradually increase in strength to reach 10,000 young people in 2030, then 50,000 by 2035.

For 2026, the first incorporations will take place from August 31, 2026 and will be spread over 3 months (September, October and November).

What are the advantages of National Service for young people?

National Service conscripts will benefit from advantages: Academic: right to a gap year, maintenance of wishes on Parcoursup Financial: monthly balance of approximately €800 minimum gross (not taken into account for scholarship rights), reduction card on national rail journeys (-75%). Materials: free equipment, accommodation and food.

How to apply for National Service?

There are several ways to submit your application. Online directly from the Army, the Navy, the Air and Space Force or from an Armed Forces Information and Recruitment Center (CIRFA). The main stages of recruitment: contact a recruitment advisor, put together an application file, go to a medical examination with a military doctor and pass a security investigation (file). The file will then be studied by the armed forces in a selection committee and the candidate informed of the result.