Service Academy Nomination
Thank you for expressing interest in the United States Service Academies. As your Congressional Representative, each year I have the privilege of nominating a limited number of people to our four prestigious service academies. By contacting my office, you are demonstrating your desire to serve our nation, and I applaud you. Attending an Academy will push you to reach your full potential both mentally and physically and provide the education and skills you need to serve our country as an officer.
As an applicant, you should begin the nomination process the summer before your senior year of high school. The first step is to apply to every academy you are interested in attending, as each offers its own educational experience. In addition, you should seek nominations from every available source, including myself and our senators, as well as the office of the Vice President of the United States.
The nomination process is one of the most rewarding opportunities afforded a Member of Congress, and I recognize that each candidate has unique qualities and achievements that should be considered. Providing your leadership experience, commitment to community, academic success, athletic ability, and strength of character will help define you as a competitive candidate and assist me in the decision-making process. As you move forward, be assured you have placed yourself in the excellent company of your peers, and I look forward to reviewing your application.
Military Academy Nominations FAQ
Frequently asked questions for those seeking a U.S. Service Academy nomination.
What is a nomination?
Members of Congress may nominate applicants who meet the eligibility requirements established by law. A candidate may seek a nomination from the following:
- A member of the U.S. House of Representatives who represents the congressional district in which the candidate resides
- Both U.S. Senators from his or her state
- Apply directly to the Vice President of the United States
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 Washington's Sixth Congressional District.
- Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
Who do I contact to request an application?
Complete letter of interest form and the 2024 nomination application information is available here.
When do I apply for a nomination?
We are accepting applications for the 2024 nomination process from June 1 until November 8, 2024.
What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?
November 8, 2024
What must be included in my nomination file?
A complete nomination file consists of the following items in one PDF. Please ensure the documents are in the following order:
- Completed interest form submitted online
- Photo - must be a head-shot
- Resume detailing work and volunteer history, and personal accomplishments
- Personal essay (500 words)
- Why do you want to attend a military academy?
- Why are you military academy material?
- What is your personal philosophy of leadership?
- Three Letters of Recommendation from people who know you well. For high school students, one of these letters must be from a STEM teacher. Recommendations from family members are not permitted*
- High school/college transcripts
- Your SAT/ACT scores [NO SuperScore or Score Choice]. If you take the tests multiple times, submit it each time you take it. The board will always take your highest score in each category into consideration
- We accept test scores up until interview date in December
- First quarter/semester senior grades or progress report
- Include copies of any Letter of Assurance or Letter of Evaluation you may have received
*Recommendations may be sent separately to Chantell.Munoz@mail.house.gov
What happens after I have completed my nomination file?
Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview. Please hold December 7, 2024, as a tentative date.
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 at New London, Connecticut
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
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.