Military Academy Nominations - FAQ
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:
- The member of the U.S. House of Representatives who represents the congressional district in which the candidate resides.
- Both U.S. Senators from his/her state; and/or
- Apply directly to the Vice-President of the United States.
When is the deadline for completing a nomination file?
The deadline to complete a nomination file is the end of October each year.
What must be included in my nomination file?
- Congressman Harder’s Nomination Application.
- Professional Photo with the name written on the back. (No selfies)
- Official SAT or ACT Scores (SAT: 4417, ACT: 7249)
- Official High School Transcripts (If in college or has college credit, you must submit your college transcripts too).
- A one-page resume with extracurricular activities, work experience, and awards
- One-page essay on why you want to go to a Service Academy and why you should receive a nomination.
- Three letters of recommendation with one being from a teacher, principal, or high school counselor
What happens after I complete my nomination file?
Applicants will be notified when the office receives their application and if there is anything missing from their application file. If they have a complete application by the application deadline, then they will be invited to have an interview with the academy selection committee. These interviews are on the first weekend of December and are scheduled for November. Please check your email regularly.
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.
Are the requirements the same for all the service academies?
No. Although many of the qualifications are similar, each academy operates under its own admissions guidelines. Visit the website of the academy of your choice to find the academy's particular admissions qualifications. It is not necessary to seek a nomination to the Coast Guard Academy
What if I choose more than one academy? Will I be limited to a single nomination?
You can be nominated to multiple academies, depending on how well you have competed among this year’s pool of candidates. It is possible to be offered an appointment from more than one academy. You may apply to all the academies which you desire to attend. Make sure to also apply to each academy you are seeking a nomination from the Congressman.
When will I know if I have been offered an appointment by the academy?
Academies will begin to notify candidates of their admission status in February and appointments will be completed by May.
If I do not get an appointment to an Academy, can the Congressman convince one of the Academies to accept me for one of their preparatory programs?
No, the Congressman does not have any sway over admission to the preparatory programs at the academy. If a student receives a nomination and has a great application, but is lacking in academic qualifications, the academy will offer them an appointment to the preparatory program if they have availability.
What other scholarship programs are there in the military?
There are several programs out there you might want to consider such as the National Guard Minutemen Scholarship Program, ROTC Scholarship Program, and the Coast Guard Academy. Each Branch also has its own scholarship opportunities for specific careers in the military. Make sure to check out each branch’s website and look up education/career opportunities to find more information.
What should I do if I have more questions about the process for a nomination from Congressman Harder?
If you still have questions please give our office a call and ask to speak with the academy representative. You can also email our office at Katie.Jaycox@mail.house.gov.