Military Academy Nominations - FAQ

Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Military Academy nomination. To submit an application, click here.

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

A congressional nomination is required for admission to four of the five U.S. service academies. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination. 

 

How many service academies are there?

There are five U.S. 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 (Note: The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination from a Member of Congress, Senator, or the Vice President of the United States.)

 

Are the requirements the same for all service academies?

No. While many of the qualifications are similar, each academy has its own admissions requirements and application process.

Applicants should review the admissions requirements for each academy they are interested in and apply directly to the academy in addition to seeking a congressional nomination when one is required.

A congressional nomination is NOT required for admission to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Applicants should apply directly through the Coast Guard Academy's admissions process. 

 

What are the basic eligibility requirements?

Each applicant seeking a nomination must meet the eligibility requirements established by law and the service academy. These generally include:
 

  • Age: Be at least 17 years old but have not passed their 23rd birthday
  • Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen
  • Marital Status: Be unmarried, not pregnant, and have no legal obligation to support children or other dependents
  • Residence: Reside within the boundaries of California's 29th Congressional District
  • Academic, Medical, and Physical Qualifications: Meet the requirements established by the service academy of interest
     

Applicants should also review the specific eligibility requirements of the academy to which they are applying. 
 

Who do I contact to request an application?

To request an application, please contact the Office of Congresswoman Luz Rivas:

Email: MilitaryAcademySubmissions@mail.house.gov
Phone: (818) 253-3535
 

When do I apply for a nomination?

The nomination application period opens May 15 each year for candidates who are high school juniors and will be seniors the following school year, as well as candidates who have already graduated from high school.

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their materials early to allow sufficient time to complete their application.

 

What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?

The deadline for submitting a complete nomination packet to the Office of Congresswoman Luz Rivas is November 2nd at 3:00 PM PST. 

Please contact our office for additional information about the application process and submission requirements.

 

What must be included in my nomination file?

A complete nomination file consists of the following:

  • Current photograph
  • High school transcript
  • SAT, ACT and/or CLT scores
  • Resume of extracurricular activities
  • An essay of 500 words or fewer explaining why you want to attend a service academy
  • At least 2 letters of recommendation

 

The applicant’s packet must be emailed to MilitaryAcademySubmissions@mail.house.gov or dropped off at the Office of Congresswoman Luz Rivas’ Arleta Office on or before November 2, 2026 at 3:00 PM PST.

The Office of Congresswoman Luz Rivas is located at 9300 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Arleta, CA 91331.

Applicants must ensure that all required materials are submitted by the November 2, 2026, at 3:00 PM PST.

 

What happens after I have completed my nomination file?

Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview in November with veterans from the community, some of whom may have attended the academies themselves.

Applicants should make sure their contact information is current and monitor their email for information regarding the interview and next steps.

 

What criteria is used in selecting candidates?

Nominations are based on a “whole person” evaluation. The selection process considers a range of factors, including:

  • Academic achievement
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Leadership experience
  • Physical aptitude
  • Character
  • Motivation

These factors are considered in evaluating applicants within the year's candidate pool.

 

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?

Applicants should seek recommendations from individuals who know them well and can speak to their character, accomplishments, leadership, and potential.

Applicants may consider asking:

  • Teachers
  • Counselors
  • Employers
  • Coaches
  • Religious leaders
  • Scout leaders


A specific recommendation form is not required. A letter of recommendation is sufficient.

 

Can I apply to more than one service academy?

Yes. Applicants may seek admission to multiple service academies and may receive nominations to more than one academy.

If you are interested in multiple academies, please indicate all the academies you are considering on your nomination application.

Applicants should also submit an application directly to each academy they wish to attend. 

 

Does receiving a nomination guarantee admission to a service academy?

No. Receiving a nomination does not guarantee admission.

A nomination allows an applicant to be considered for an appointment, but the service academy makes the final admissions decision. If selected, the applicant will receive an offer of admission, known as an appointment, directly from the academy.
 

When will I know if I have been offered an appointment by an academy?

Service academies generally begin notifying applicants of their admission status in February. Offers of appointment are generally issued through May.

Applicants should monitor communications from each academy throughout the admissions process and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.