The Student Incentive Payment (SIP) Program is a federally funded initiative administered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD). The program provides financial assistance to cadets enrolled in the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP) at one of the six state maritime academies (SMAs). SIP supports cadets pursuing a U.S. Coast Guard unlimited tonnage or unlimited horsepower license and a commission in the U.S. Navy Reserve’s Strategic Sealift Officer Force.

The U.S. Merchant Marine plays a vital role in national defense by supplying the sealift capability needed to transport military equipment and supplies during times of conflict or crisis. The Strategic Sealift Officer Program, established by the Department of the Navy, ensures officers are trained in maritime operations, logistics, and sealift readiness to support these critical missions.

To meet these needs, SIP provides up to $64,000 in financial support per student over a four-year period. This funding must be used to offset the cost of tuition, uniforms, books, and subsistence while enrolled.
Students interested in joining SIP should speak with their academy’s SIP Coordinator to learn more about eligibility, service obligations, and the application process. To apply or learn more, visit the Student Incentive Payment Enrollment Environment (SIPEE): Student Incentive Program Portal.