Info for families
RMC staff and faculty recognize that you have entrusted your family member to our care, and we are honoured to contribute to their education and development into future leaders of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
This page contains some general information about life at RMC that is especially relevant to family members. For a compendium of information for families, see the RMC Family Handbook .
General information about the Canadian Armed Forces
- “NCdt” means Naval Cadet in the Royal Canadian Navy.
- “OCdt” means Officer Cadet, and it applies to Officer Cadets of the Canadian Army and the Royal Canadian Air Force.
- This CAF site provides an overview of CAF ranks and pay structures.
- This recruitment site provides information about the different specializations (known as “trades” in the CAF) available to CAF members.
- Veterans Affairs
Have a question about the CAF? Check out these frequently asked questions about National Defence, or send us an email at successcentre-centredesucces@rmc-cmr.ca
Daily life at RMC
Life at RMC is busy, filled with academic study, physical and military training, and other duties. There are, however, many opportunities for fun and relaxation, and many N/OCdts build connections during their time at the college that last a lifetime.
- Living quarters: RMC has on-site residences for all the ROTP N/OCdts, who are expected to reside on campus for the duration of their studies. This allows for team bonding, combined activities, and the establishment of relationships that are crucial to future success.
- Food: Cadets take most of their meals at a large dining facility, the Cadet Mess. There is also a snack bar (“Chez Brucie”) for coffee and light meals.
- Other amenities: RMC has a small CANEX on site, as well as a barbershop, both located in the basement of Yeo Hall.
- Explore RMC virtually: You can explore RMC through this online video
Health Care
One of the most common areas of concern for families is how their N/OCdt can access medical care. CAF personnel receive health care through a distinct health care structure but also have access to provincial health care facilities. For general info on health care in the CAF, see the Health, support and casualty services website.
- For N/OCdts, the RMC detachment of 33 CF Health Services is the primary care provider/family doctor. 33 Health Services is cadets' primary point of contact for both mental and physical health.
- As CAF members, N/OCdts also have access to dental benefits, available through the Dental Unit Detachment of 33 CF Health Services
- Specialist and other medical services may be provided by the Kingston Health Sciences Centre.
- As CAF members, N/OCdts are eligible for supplemental health care benefits to cover the cost of prescription medications, vision care, and other expenses.
- CAF members also have access to a number of mental health services. For N/OCdts at RMC, the primary points of contact for mental health concerns are 33 CF Health Services, Chaplains, and/or Sentinels (volunteer peer support, coordinated by the Chaplains). They also have access to the CF Member Assistance Program, which provides short-term counselling.
- The Health Promotion unit at CFB Kingston and the Kingston Military Family Resource Centre provide a range of events, resources, and services to support the health, morale, and wellbeing of CAF members, including N/OCdts at RMC.
- A list of emergency and support services can be found here
Life Events
N/OCdts and their families should know they are not alone in dealing with crises at home or other life events.
RMC provides Chaplain services, medical facilities (which include social workers), and administrative support of various kinds to help N/OCdts and their families navigate such events. If you don’t know where to start, contact the Success Centre.
Absences: As serving CAF members, N/OCdts at RMC are not allowed to be absent for a few days without written permission from their chain of command. N/OCdts will also need to coordinate with their professors to catch up on missed academic work.
Visiting RMC
Tours: Families are welcome to visit RMC. You can book a tour of the RMC campus, or sign up for an online info session by contacting the RMC Liaison Office.
Kingston: The City of Kingston site provides tourist information as well as day-to-day services that are available in our host city. There is always something on the go in Kingston, from great concerts to outdoor festivals and other events.