The service academies are federal institutions that provide an undergraduate education and train future commissioned officers for service in the United States Armed Forces. Applying to a Military Service Academy is a rigorous, highly-competitive, and lengthy process only for the most determined and qualified candidates. Service academies routinely rank amongst the top universities in the nation. Students pay no tuition while at a service academy, but they are required to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Cadets and midshipmen will receive a small stipend while attending an academy as well as free room and board.
Frequently Asked Questions for those seeking a Military Academy Nomination - U.S. Congressman Alred
Military Academy Nominations from U.S. Representative Colin Allred
Military Academy Nominations from U.S. Representative Lance Gooden
Military Academy Nominations from U.S. Senator John Cornyn
Military Academy Nominations from U.S. Senator Ted Cruz
United States military academies provide undergraduate education and training for commissioned officers in the military. There are five military 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, Colorado
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York
U.S. Coast Guard Academy at New London, Connecticut
Candidates are required to have letters of recommendations, strong transcripts, strong SAT or ACT scores, pass a Department of Defense Military Examination Review Board (DODMERB) physical examination, and pass a fitness test. Candidates are expected to be scholars, leaders, and athletes within their schools or communities. If you are in high school, ensure you are serving in a leadership position, whether it’s as a sports team captain, a class or club officer, or community leader.
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.
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.
We strongly recommend contacting your chosen academy's state admissions representatives. These individuals are a great resource to provide additional information on their application process and to assist prospective cadets and families.
Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officers