SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cap-starting-grade

What grade does a brand-new CAP cadet start with?

Cadet Airman Basic, with no insignia.

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  1. Cadet Airman
  2. Cadet Airman Basic ✔
  3. Cadet Private

Why: The Cadet Welcome Course says your starting grade in CAP is Cadet Airman Basic. Each promotion brings a new grade and new insignia.

Huh, didn't know that: Completing Achievement 1 makes you a Cadet Airman.

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References

Answer: Cadet Airman Basic. The Cadet Welcome Course says your starting grade in CAP is Cadet Airman Basic. Each promotion brings a new grade and new insignia.

  1. CAP Cadet Welcome Course lesson plan (Oct 2021) www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Cadet_Welcome_Course_Oct_21_E3C24DF62C77C.pdf
    Your starting grade in CAP is Cadet Airman Basic.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. CAPP 60-20 New Cadet Guide (Feb 2026) www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/P_6020_A0A6B98761299.pdf
    NO INSIGNIA Cadet Airman Basic
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. CAP Help for New Cadets page www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/newcadet
    Upon completing Achievement 1 and becoming a Cadet Airman
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  4. CAP Ranks and Awards (Stripes to Diamonds) www.gocivilairpatrol.com/programs/cadets/stripes-to-diamonds
    C/SrA Achievement 3
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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