The pass rate for UK Special Forces (UKSF) selection, including for the Special Boat Service (SBS), is extremely low, typically less than 10%, meaning a failure rate of over 90% is common, making it one of the world's most demanding selection processes. Candidates must pass rigorous physical and mental tests, with only a fraction completing the multi-phase, physically punishing course held twice yearly, with a maximum of two attempts allowed.
The selection process for entry into the SBS, along with the SAS, is undoubtedly the toughest of any of the worldwide Special Forces. What makes it so tough is the fact that it tests both one's physical and mental stamina over a prolonged period of time.
The pass rate for Royal Marine Commados is around 15%, the pass rate for SAS and SBS selection is the same at around 5% although SBS candidates do have do pass the swimmer canoeist (SC3) training course failure of which is rare.
The first version of the SAS selection course was created by John Woodhouse in 1952. Until the late 1990s, candidates for the SAS and SBS underwent selection separately. Selection is held twice per year, in the summer and in the winter. Typically, less than 10% of candidates make it through the selection process.
On average, about 36% of the starting SFAS class is selected. But remember, civilians who voluntarily or involuntarily lose their 18X contract in OSUT, Airborne, SOPC, or prior to SFAS are not included in these attrition numbers.
Worst PCS Destinations
Unlike many reality competition series, there are no formal elimination points; instead, contestants may voluntarily withdraw or be medically withdrawn at any point prior to completion. They may also be disqualified for failing to complete specific steps of the course.
All those wishing to join UKSF (SBS or SAS) must pass a joint selection process. Depending on their chosen career path, on passing joint selection they will move on to further selection and training with their chosen unit. Candidates only get 2 shots at passing selection.
In fiscal year 2025, the military's recruiting efforts returned to levels not seen in more than a decade. "Since November 2024, our military has seen its highest recruiting percentage of mission achieved in more than 15 years," stated Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell.
Its members often do not tell anyone except close family that they are in it. The British Ministry of Defence (MOD) rarely speaks of the SAS and mission details are never released until much later. The badge of the organisation was originally designed as a flaming sword of Damocles but ended up as a winged dagger.
Recruits are exposed to high levels of psychological and physical stress during the special forces selection period, resulting in dropout rates of up to 80%.
Applying for the SAS
Ex Regular and AR applicants must be no older than 48 years 364 days on commencement of the Aptitude phase of SAS(R) Selection. Applicants must be able to commit to intense and extended training demands, be willing to deploy overseas and commit to operations.
The SBS is usually commanded by a Lieutenant Colonel with a Major as second in command. Each SBS squadron is commanded by an Officer, usually a Royal Marines Major or Royal Navy Lieutenant Commander.
With the SBS (until recently) drawing its ranks from the Royal Marines, it is suggested that an SBS operator has a greater level of experience of soldiering than many of their SAS counterparts. The demands of working in the water demands a higher level of fitness and mental toughness than the SAS.
Most trainees with an athletic background will pass stage 1 (under 13:30 2 mile run) quite quickly, and stage 2 is where candidates will spend most of their time. We find it takes most heavier candidates three to six months of running three to four days per week to bring their two mile time from 13:30 to 12:00.
The idea is that when your mind tells you you're done and can't go any further, you are only at about 40% of your actual capacity. Push for that extra 60% when your mind is telling you to quit, that you're “at your limit.” Because you're most likely not.
By law, a Soldier with over eight years of active Federal Service is eligible for disability compensation even if the condition is Exist Prior to Service (“EPTS”). The eight years of active service do not have to be continuous; however, you must be on active-duty orders of more than 30 days for this rule to apply.
Although the United States Coast Guard is not a branch of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), it is part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is still considered one of the six military services. It has also struggled more than the other branches in recruiting new personnel.
Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases. The offenses and moral behavior-related issues that cannot be waived include: If you are under civil restraint, including parole, confinement, or probation.
The SBS is often referred to as the sister unit of the SAS. While this might be fair, it would perhaps be more accurate to describe it as its 'slightly older' sister in lieu of the fact the SBS can trace its origins back to a whole year before the formation of the better-known Special Air Service.
Paddy Mayne's reputation in the SAS: how his legend was born
Paddy Mayne went on to lead a series of successful desert raids in Africa, helping to build the SAS's reputation as an ever-present threat to the enemy's tail, while becoming an inspiration to the tough ex-commandos serving under him.
BEAR GRYLLS OBE, has become known worldwide as one of the most recognized faces of survival and outdoor adventure. Trained from a young age in martial arts, Grylls went on to spend three years as a soldier in the British Special Forces, as part of 21 SAS Regiment.
We enlisted 15 of the best of the best Special Forces around the world.
The frequency of deployment can vary quite a bit depending on the specific career field and the current global situation, but generally speaking, the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Coast Guard typically have lower rates of deployment compared to other branches.
Military personnel must shave their faces regularly to ensure a clean-shaven appearance. Mustaches must be kept short and not extend beyond the corners of the mouth.