Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Service Academy nomination. You may also fill out a Service 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.
- Applicants for the United States Merchant Marine Academy can apply to any Senator or Congressperson in their home state.
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 children or other dependents.
- Residence: Must reside within the boundaries of the 8th Congressional District of New Jersey.
- Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DODMERB): Must meet the medical and physical requirements of the Academy.
Who do I contact with any question not on the FAQ?
Please reach out to Jeremy Julis at Jeremy.Julis@mail.house.gov or by calling our district office at (201) 309-0301.
When do I apply for a nomination?
The nomination application period opens in the spring of each year for those candidates who are high school juniors and will be seniors the following school year, or who have already graduated.
What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?
The deadline for submitting a nomination application on our website is Friday, November 20th 2026.
What must be included in my nomination file?
- PDF copy of your unofficial high school transcript;
- PDF copy of your American College Testing Program (ACT) results and/or College Board Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) results;
- PDF copy of your resume of extracurricular activities;
- PDF Copy of a maximum 500 words letter of interest on why you would like to be considered for a Service Academy Nomination.
- PDF copy of a minimum of one letter of recommendation.
What happens after I have completed my nomination file?
Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview in December.
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.
- U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York
- U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland
- U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs
- U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York
- U.S. Coast Guard Academy at New London, Connecticut
- * The United States Coast Guard Academy does not require Congressional Nominations.
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 for each academy's particular admissions qualifications.
Who should I ask to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
Applicants typically seek recommendations from:
- Teachers
- School Counselors
- Employers
- Coaches
- Clergy
- Scout Leaders
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.