2025 U.S. Service Academy Nomination

The U.S. Service Academies are dedicated to developing future leaders through world-class education, rigorous training, and a commitment to excellence. Their mission is to provide cadets and midshipmen with the knowledge, character, and leadership skills necessary to serve as commissioned officers in the United States military, preparing them for a lifetime of service and dedication.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for admission to a U.S. service academy, candidates must meet the following basic criteria:

• U.S. Citizenship: Must be a citizen of the United States.
• Age: Must be at least 17 but younger than 23 years old by July 1 of the year of entry (up to 25 for the United States Merchant Marine Academy).
• Marital Status: Must be unmarried and have no dependents.

Additionally, candidates must demonstrate:

• Academic Excellence: A strong academic record with preparation in key subjects.
• Leadership Skills: Leadership roles in extracurricular activities, particularly athletics.
• Standardized Testing: Completion of either the SAT or ACT.
• Medical Fitness: Pass a comprehensive medical examination administered by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DODMERB).
• Physical Fitness: Successful completion of the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA).

Congressional Nomination Process

Admission to the U.S. Service Academies follows a two-step process:

1. Application to the Academy: Candidates must apply directly to the Service Academy of their choice.
2. Congressional Nomination: Members of Congress are responsible for nominating candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. Service Academies:

• The U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY
• The U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD
• The U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO
• The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY

The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

The Significance of an Academy Appointment

Earning an appointment to one of the U.S. Service Academies is a prestigious honor. Graduates receive:

• A first-rate undergraduate education in leadership, military tactics, and more.
• Health benefits and a stipend throughout their academic years.
• An opportunity to embark on a challenging and rewarding career in the U.S. military or merchant marine.

Upon graduation, appointees are committed to serving as officers in the active or reserve components of the U.S. military or merchant marine for a minimum of five years.

Key Points to Remember

• Start Early: Begin the admissions process as soon as possible. Keep in mind that applying to Service Academies is a separate process from seeking a congressional nomination. A nomination is required for an appointment, and it is your responsibility to initiate your pre-candidate file at all academies you are considering.
• Preparation for Alternatives: If you are not selected for direct admission, you may be invited to attend an academy prep school. While there is not a guarantee of future acceptance, these prep schools have a proven track record of successfully preparing students for entry into the academies after one year.

Application Deadline

To formally establish candidacy, a completed application package must be submitted by Friday, October 17, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.

If you have any questions or need further assistance with the application process, please contact Jessica Hayes at Jessica.Hayes1@mail.house.gov or 771-200-6891.