<p>There are an allotted number of SEAL officer slots every year at service selection time. These slots will be filled by someone. It could well be your S. The best candidates get the slots. I don’t think it would be to your S’s disadvantage if he expressed his interest in becoming a SEAL. If he doesn’t get a SEAL slot then he will get some other assignment so it’s not like the Academy has wasted their time and efforts on him. </p>
<p>I would urge your S to also apply to NROTC. My S (NROTC) is an EOD (spec. ops. explosive ordnance disposal) officer. He had to work really hard to get it because like SEALS they take a very small number of officers each year fr. NROTC and USNA. Then once you get the slot, the “fun” begins. The two years of training that follows is grueling…to put it nicely. Good luck to your S.</p>