Military Academy Nominations - FAQ

Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Military Academy nomination. You may also fill out a Military Academy Nominations Form.

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
  • A child of a military servicemember may receive a Presidential nomination
  • Members of ROTC and JROTC programs may apply for nominations through those programs

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 their 23rd birthday
  • Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Marital Status: Must be unmarried, not pregnant, and without legal obligation to support dependents
  • Residence: Must reside within the boundaries of the 2nd Congressional District of Kansas.
  • Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy

What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?

The deadline for submitting a nomination packet to the District Office is normally mid-October. Please contact the office for more specifics.

What must be included in my Nomination Application File?

Required On-line Submissions

  • Name
  • Phone
  • Email
  • Date of Birth
  • Sex
  • Home Address
  • Parent/Guardian Name(s)
  • High School Name and Address
  • Year in School
  • High School Counselor Name and Phone
  • Unweighted High School GPA
  • Class Rank
  • SAT/ACT Score
  • College Attended and Location (if applicable)
  • College Major (if applicable)
  • College Hours Completed and GP A (if applicable)
  • Military academy(s) nominations sought
  • Nominations sought from who others
  • Employment/Extracurricular Activities &/or Leadership Roles
  • Awards &/or Honors
  • Community Involvement Activities
  • Description of character and leadership abilities, and why seek to attend a U.S. service academy (maximum 500 words)
  • Recent photo (4x6 portrait preferred)
  • Current resume (maximum 2 pages)

Required Mail/Email Submissions

  • Official high school transcripts (and college if applicable) with seal and appropriate signature(s)
  • SAT and/or ACT score verification (scores included on your official high school transcript will be accepted)
  • Three letters of reference (sent by the applicant or the author)

What happens after I have completed my nomination file?

Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview.

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 receive 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.