Military Options

What are Federal Military Academies?

They are highly selective and prepare military leaders. Admission criteria include rigorous physical assessment, demonstration of leadership, and academic rigor. Preparation for the application process should begin by sophomore year to enable students to secure the recommendation of their senator or congressional representative. The application is officially open for juniors in February of their junior year. Successful applicants theoretically represent the very best the country has to offer. Graduates become professional, full-time service persons upon their graduation. During their four years, students participate in athletics, often competing against collegiate conferences, alongside their military leadership training. Importantly, students' cost of attendance is free for four years in exchange for the four-year service commitment. 


FEDERAL MILITARY ACADEMIES

Air Force Academy

Links to an external site.

—the Air Force Academy commissions cadets into both the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Space Force.

Coast Guard Academy

Links to an external site.

Naval Academy

Links to an external site.

—the Naval Academy commissions midshipmen into both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marine Corps. 

West Point Military Academy

Links to an external site.

—trains leaders for the U.S. Army

Merchant Marine Academy

Links to an external site.

—graduates merchant marine officers