Service Academy Nominations - FAQ
Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Service Academy Nomination:
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
- The Vice-President of the United States
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 the 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 Florida’s 6th District
- Skill/Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
Check out info on the medical disqualifiers here.
When do I apply for a nomination?
My nomination application period opens in June 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 firm deadline for submitting an application is October 16, 2024.
What happens after I have completed my nomination file?
Once you have submitted your application, the Service Academy Coordinator will contact you to schedule an interview with my Service Academy Board, which is composed of military dignitaries and community leaders. The interviews will take place November 9, 2024 at the ATC in Daytona Beach.
What criteria are used in selecting candidates?
Nominations are based on a "whole person" evaluation. Factors such as academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills, physical aptitude, your interview, character and motivation are taken into consideration and compared with other applicants.
How many academies are there?
There are five service academies.
Three reside within the Department of Defense:
One resides within the Department of Transportation:
One resides within the Department of Homeland Security:
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.
Do I need to contact the Academy, or is the application to Congressman Waltz’ office sufficient?
Make sure you contact the academy of your choice and request a catalog and other material regarding admission requirements. Each academy has its own application, which must be filled out by prospective candidates.
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 if 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 win 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.
If there are questions regarding the application process, should the applicant or the parent/guardian make contact with Congressman Waltz’ office?
It is very important that the applicant for nomination, not their parent or guardian, complete the application and contact my office if there are any questions regarding the process.
Will my name be released to the media if I receive a nomination from Congressman Waltz?
Yes. By completing an application, you agree for your name will be included in a press release noting Congressman Waltz’ nomination selections.
