Military Academy Nominations - FAQ

Military Academy Nominations - FAQ

Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Military 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
  • Apply directly to 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 the 47th Congressional District of California.
  • Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy

How do I apply?

The application is on our website linked here. Please fill this out and once you finish, it will generate a PDF. The generated PDF is only a PART of the entire packet.

What must be included in my nomination file?

A complete nomination file consists of the following items:

  • Service Academy Nomination Application Form (Linked here)
  • Current photo
  • Official transcripts from all high schools, junior colleges, or universities attended
  • American College Testing Program (ACT) results and/or College Board Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) results
  • Resume of extracurricular activities
  • An essay stating why you want to attend a service academy (500 words or less)
  • Three letters of recommendation from your teacher, counselor, coach, or clergy

How do I submit my finished packet?

Please submit the entire packet all at once. Once your packet has been reviewed and deemed complete, you will receive written confirmation by email. To receive a nomination to an Academy, you must have an open admission file at the academy of your choice prior to submitting your packet to Congressman Min’s office. Please mail completed application to our Costa Mesa District office or drop completed applications off in person at 1370 Adams Ave Suite A Costa Mesa, CA  92626.

What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?

The deadline for submitting a nomination packet to the District Office is October 15, 2025.

What happens after I have completed my nomination file?

Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview in late October or early November.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.