SMI will conduct training equivalent to traditional ROTC programs. It will also offer courses and materials comparable to those of the Staff Officer Courses of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Routine drill, inspections, parades, and combat training maneuvers will be schedule as part of the military training.

SMI will not have commissioning authority for officers in the United States Armed Forces or in the National Guards of the respective States or U.S. territories. Those cadets that wish to receive commissions will be directed to State Officer Candidate School (OCS) programs of the National Guards of states that are within driving distance of SMI.

Military ceremonies will routinely be conducted. Special ceremonies will be conducted commemorating the Southern Confederacy and Confederate Memorial Day. New Market Day commemorating the Charge of the VMI Cadets at the Battle of New Market, Virginia (May 15,1864), and similar events formerly commemorated by the Citadel will also be honoured.