Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Military Academy nomination. To start your application, head back to our Military Academy Nominations page.
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 24th Congressional District of California.
- Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Contact our San Luis Obispo district office to request more information.
When do I apply for a nomination?
The nomination application period opens May 15th of each year for those candidates who are high school juniors and will be seniors the following school year, or who have already graduated.
What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?
The deadline for submitting a nomination packet to the District Office is normally sometime in the first week of October. Please contact the San Luis Obispo district office for more specifics.
What must be included in my nomination file?
- Completed personal information pages.
- Recent photo of yourself printed on an 8.5’’X 11’’ sheet of paper.
- Professional Resume: This will be a short document, not exceeding one full page, that shows your skills, experiences, and achievements. A good resume should include your academic background (education and grades), work experience, extracurricular activities (like clubs, sports, or leadership roles), and volunteer experience.
- For an example of what a good resume looks like you may visit the following link: https://careerservices.fas.harvard.edu/resources/bullet-point-resume-template/
- Personal Commentary. This includes both of the following:
- 500-word essay about yourself, your goals, and the reasons you would like to attend a Service Academy.
- 250-word essay entitled “The Responsibility of Leadership” this essay should expand upon its title to whatever it means for the individual applicant.
- Two letters of recommendation: Anyone other than a family member may submit a letter of reference for you. Please be sure to include their name, address, email, and phone number with the letter.
- Official Transcripts: Transcripts must arrive with your application packet in a SEALED envelope.
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, November or early December.
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.
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.
Ready to start your application? Head back to our Military Academy Nominations page.
