Overview Student eligibility and qualifications Application process - preliminary steps Application process - final steps

Application Process - Preliminary Steps

Go to the military academy websites below and complete the first step in the application process – complete the online “Candidate Questionnaire”, “Preliminary Application”, “PreCandidate Questionnaire” or “Application”:

• Army Questionnaire :  Click on “Apply to USMA”.
• Navy Preliminary Application : Click on “Steps for Admission”.
• Air Force Questionnaire :  Click on “APPLICATION” under “ADMISSIONS CENTER”. 
• U.S. Coast Guard Application :  Click on “Admissions”.
• Merchant Marine Application :  Click on “Admissions”.

Based on your completed Candidate Questionnaire or Application, your information will be evaluated and if you’re considered “competitive” (worthy of consideration for admission), you’ll be mailed a complete application package.

Within days of completing the online Questionnaire, start the process to obtain a nomination from U.S. Congressman, U.S. Senator, the Vice President, or the President.  Requesting a nomination is a complete process within itself; you need letters of recommendation, grade transcript copies, etc.  Go to www.senate.gov or www.house.gov to find your Senator’s or Congressman’s website.  See your Senator’s or Congressman’s website for specific instructions on requesting a nomination.

To apply for a nomination from the Vice President, go to Vice Presidential Nominations
Presidential nominations are reserved for sons and daughters of career military personnel.

Additionally, there are military service-connected nominations for sons and daughters of:

• Deceased and disabled veterans
• Persons awarded the Medal of Honor