Military Academy Nominations
Application is now Open! Service Academy Day will be on September 6, 2025.
You can find out more about Service Academy Day here.
Instructions, frequently asked questions and application are below.
Speed of Submission will have no impact on consideration of Nomination Request.
What is a nomination?
A nomination is a referral by the congresswoman on your behalf. All attendees must receive a nomination in order to attend an academy.
What are the basic eligibility requirements?
Each applicant for a nomination must meet the following eligibility requirements as of July 1st of the year of admission to an academy:
- Age: Be at least 17 years old, but not have passed the 23rd birthday
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen
- Marital Status: Must be unmarried, not pregnant, and without legal obligation to support children or other dependents
- Residence: Must reside within the boundaries of the 1st Congressional District of South Carolina.
- Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
When do I apply for a nomination?
The nomination application period opens July 1st and closes November 1st of each year for those candidates who are high school juniors and will be seniors the following school year, or who have already graduated. Follow us to stay updated on application opening and closing dates! Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
What must be included in my nomination file?
A complete nomination file consists of the following items:
- Official transcripts
- Bio - not to exceed 500 words
- This is your opportunity to tell us a little about yourself
- Resume - should not exceed one page
- Include all extracurricular activities (sports, clubs, volunteerism, work, JROTC, etc.)
- Indicate any leadership roles you have held (captain, president, etc.)
- Respond to the following two essay prompts in 500 words or less,
- What does service mean to you? Tell us about a time you overcame a hardship or adversity and how it has impacted you.
- Three letters of recommendation
What happens after I have completed my nomination file?
Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview in late October or early November.
What criteria is used in selecting candidates?
Nominations are based on a "whole person" evaluation. Factors such as academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills, physical aptitude, character and motivation are taken into consideration and compared with other applicants.
How many academies are there?
There are five service academies.
- U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York
- U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland
- U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs
- U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York
- U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.
May I seek a nomination to more than one academy?
Absolutely, and we encourage you to do so! However, you may only receive a nomination to academies to which you have applied. It is also important to note that U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is unique in that you may commission into any branch of service from USMMA. So, we strongly encourage all students to give it consideration.
Are the requirements the same for all of the service academies?
No. Although many of the qualifications are similar, each academy operates under its own admissions guidelines. Visit the academy of your choice via the websites noted for each academy's particular admissions qualifications. It is not necessary to seek a nomination to the Coast Guard Academy, as the U.S.C.G.A. accepts candidates based on their own testing criteria.
Who should I ask to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
Some of the people applicants typically seek recommendations from include:
- Teachers
- Counselors
- Employers
- Coaches
- Clergy
- Scout Leaders
- Members of the Armed Forces and/or veterans
A specific recommendation form is not required. A letter of recommendation is sufficient.
Will I automatically be selected by the academy after I receive a nomination?
No. You will be placed among a select group of nominees, and the academy of your choice will make the final decision. If selected, you will receive an offer of admission (an appointment) directly from the academy.
What if I choose more than one academy? Will I be limited to a single nomination?
No. You can be nominated to multiple academies depending on how well you have competed among this year's pool of candidates. It is also possible to win multiple appointments.
When will I know if I have been offered an appointment by an academy?
Academies will begin to notify candidates of their admission status in February. All offers of appointment are generally sent out by May.
Who can I contact if I have questions about the process or status of a nomination?
For more information, please contact alexa.jones@mail.house.gov.
The honor of attending a service academy comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for the minimum service obligation, contact the academy to learn more.
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