Following his journey on "Karlsruhe", Topp attended the main cadet course at the Naval Academy Mürwik (30 June 1935 – 29 June 1936). During this time frame at the naval academy, he advanced in rank to "Fähnrich zur See" (officer cadet) on 1 July 1935. Starting on 30 June 1936, he underwent a number of specialized weapons training courses for cadets at various naval schools. On 16 October 1936, he was again transferred to "Karlsruhe", staying onboard until 31 March 1937. The next day, he was promoted to "Leutnant zur See" (Second Lieutenant) and took a torpedo training course which he completed on 17 April. On 18 April, he was yet again posted to "Karlsruhe", serving as an adjutant until 4 October 1937.