HOW DO CADETS PROMOTE TO THE NEXT RANK?
Cadets advance to the next rank through a combination of coursework, trainings, and time at a particular rank (Time in Grade or "TIG"). "Coursework" is completed online through the Polaris portal found on the Quarterdeck.  Some courses may require an exam. The term "Trainings" means organized, in person multi-day (and typically overnight) camps/sessions. All cadets must complete a "boot camp" or Recruit Training (for League cadets - Navy League Orientation) before qualifying for any of the many Advanced Trainings available nationwide. 

HOW DO I READ THE CHART?

The first column tells you the name of each rank with the starting rank at the top. The next column "Required Time in Rank" tells you how long you have to be in a rank to meet your TIG requirement. If there is a course required to achieve the next rank, it will be listed in the next column and if there is an exam, that is listed next. Finally, if you must attend a training to be that rank, that will be described in the last column. 

Example: to be an E1 Recruit, it requires no time in rank, no courses or exam and not trainings. But to be an E2 Apprentice, it requires you to have been a Recruit for 3 months, take the BMR course - but no exam, and you must attend Recruit Training ("RT").