Service Academy Nominations
CLICK HERE to view slides from our Service Academy Nomination Virtual Information Session
Each year, Members of Congress nominate promising young people to become eligible for an appointment to a U.S. Service Academy. The academies are seeking future cadets and midshipmen who possess “whole person” qualifications: good moral character, a commendable academic record, evidence of strong leadership potential, physical aptitude, medical fitness, motivation to achieve academically, and eventually, the desire to serve as an officer in the Armed Forces. Our office will make up to ten nominations for each academy vacancy at:
- The United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado
- The United States Military Academy, West Point, New York
- The United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland
- The United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, New York
The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy(USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a Congressional nomination for appointment.
Nominations will be awarded based on the recommendations of the Citizens Advisory Committee and Congressman Jason Crow. The nominating process begins by completing the application packet. The online application must be completed, and all supporting materials (including letters of recommendation) must be received by September 29, 2025.
How to apply: Click HERE to begin your application.
What is the timeline for Service Academy Nominations?
The 2025 Service Academy Nomination process timeline is as follows:
- April 15: Application for a nomination opens
- September 29: Application closes
- October 16: Qualified applicants receive an invitation to schedule an in-person interview
- Early November: Interviews will be held - exact dates to be announced
- Late December: Nominees are announced
- January 31: All Congressional nominations will be submitted to their respective academies.
What are the basic eligibility requirements?
Each applicant 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
- Residence: Must reside within the boundaries of the 6th Congressional District of Colorado
- Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
What must be included in my nomination file?
A complete nomination file consists of the following items:
- Completed application
- High school transcript (official preferred but not required)
- American College Testing Program (ACT) results and/or College Board Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) results
- Minimum of three letters of recommendation
Who should I ask to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
Applicants typically seek recommendations from individuals such as:
- Teachers
- Counselors
- Employers
- Coaches
- Faith-based leaders
- Scout Leaders
Applicants are responsible for submitting their letters of recommendation to our office before September 29th and may be forwarded to Sean.Rocha@mail.house.gov. Extensions are accepted by request.
Can I apply for a nomination if I am active duty in the armed Services or reserves?
Yes. Active duty Service members meeting the basic eligibility criteria are eligible for the four congressional nominations, in addition to a nomination through their branch of the armed Services. For more details, contact your commanding officer.
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.
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 each Academy's website for more information on specific admission 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.
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.
Should I apply for an ROTC scholarship?
Because the nomination and appointment process is competitive, not all candidates will receive a nomination or an appointment. The applicant may want to consider earning a military commission via the Reserve Officer Training Corps. (ROTC). Additional information is available at:
- Air Force ROTC: http://www.afrotc.com/scholarships/application/
- Naval ROTC: http://www.navy.com/joining/education-opportunities/nrotc.html
If I do not receive a nomination or an appointment, can I apply again?
Yes. Candidates may apply up until the age of 23, as long as they still meet the eligibility criteria.