SERVICE ACADEMIES & ROTC

The Service Academies

Applying to the Service Academies is a lengthy, complex process that requires a lot of support -- see your counselor if you think you'd like to know more!

While the Service Academies are often referred to as "military academies," only West Point, Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy are operated by the Department of Defense. The Coast Guard Academy is operated by the Department of Homeland Security, and the Merchant Marine Academy is operated by the Department of Transportation. Students enrolled in the Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Coast Guard Academy are considered to be on active duty in the United States Armed Forces from the day they enter the Academy, with the rank of cadet or midshipman, and subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Students enrolled at Merchant Marine Academy serve in the US Navy Reserve, with the rank of midshipman and are only subject to the UCMJ while actively training with the US military on Navy orders.  Consider the mission of each department and how you desire to serve our nation.

See Jason Crowe's website for detailed information about the timeline & resources available for applicants.

STEP 1: Prepare your personal information/resume. Include all the hours you’ve spent on extra-curriculars, summer/after school jobs, recognition, etc.

STEP 2: Open a Candidate Profile through the respective school’s website (opening a profile is the way to initiate the application process).

STEP 3: Obtain a congressional nomination from one of the following:

• Michael Bennet/ John Hickenlooper (typically opens early April) nomination requires: Application, 3 letters of recommendation, ACT/SAT score, Recent photo, Personal letter noting reasons for seeking nomination. Tip: How to Address a US Senator

• Jason Crow (typically opens in June) nomination requires: Application, 3 letters of recommendation , ACT/SAT scores, Recent photo, Writing sample (in 2022 this was a 300 word essay and 5 short-response questions), Official transcript with complete course listing. Tip: How to address a US Congressman

• Vice President (excludes USCGA)

STEP 4: Complete the Department of Defense Medical Exam 

STEP 5: Complete the Candidate Fitness Assessment

STEP 6: Submit academy application(s)

TIPS

• Research. Read everything on the school’s website & the nomination pages of each congressional source.

• Plan. Map out deadlines for standardized testing, letters of rec, nominations, applications, etc.

• Make a Plan B. Consider ROTC, other “good fit” colleges, etc.

ROTC

The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is a college program offered at more than 1,700 colleges across the United States that prepares young adults to become officers in the U.S. Military. In exchange for a paid college education and a guaranteed post-college career, participants commit to serve in the Military after graduation. Each Service branch has its own take on ROTC, but the following eligibility criteria must at a minimum be satisfied in all cases:

• Must be a U.S. citizen at least 17 years of age

• Must have at least a 2.5 GPA (3.0 for Air Force ROTC)

• Must meet minimum SAT and/or ACT requirements:

• Must have a high school diploma

• Must meet prescribed physical fitness standards

Students can participate in ROTC without a scholarship, which typically means you'll receive the stipend benefits during junior & senior year once contracted.