Application Process Open For U.S. Military Academies

The privilege of nominating young Idahoans to United States military academies is one of our most enjoyable opportunities as U.S. Senators and Representatives.  These young people are the future of our country, and we are always impressed with the Idahoans who apply.

As authorized by law, each year elected officials have the honor of nominating deserving young women and men to the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado; the U.S. Military Academy, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy, Maryland; and the Merchant Marine Academy, New York.  Acceptance into these academies provides students with a tuition-free, four-year undergraduate education, valued at approximately $400,000.  Graduates have jobs after graduation, as they are commissioned as officers and spend a minimum of five years on duty.  Additionally, their education and training make them competitive for graduate programs and future jobs.

High school seniors interested in attending an academy should submit completed application packetsby November 30, 2012.  In addition to the short application, an essay, three letters of recommendation, ACT/SAT scores, a transcript and class rank at the end of the applicant's junior year of high school, and a completed principal/guidance counselor form are required.  Applicants are also encouraged to apply to all offices involved in academy nominations, including both of your U.S. Senators, your U.S. Representative and the Vice President.  Offices require that the application and complete packet must be in by November 30 ^th of the applicant's senior year of high school.  High school graduates who are seventeen years old, but not yet twenty-three, can apply by July 1 of the year they would enter an academy.  

This month we are hosting Academy Day, an annual event to provide students, parents and counselors with information about each academy and how to obtain a congressional nomination.  Those who are interested but unable to attend an Academy Day can access information regarding the application process on each of our websites, or by contacting one of the following:

Karen Roetter, (Senator Mike Crapo), (208) 664-5490

Vicki Fulton, (Senator Jim Risch), (208) 667-6130

Lisa Anderson, (Congressman Raùl Labrador), (208) 888-3188

Linda Culver, (Congressman Mike Simpson), (208) 734-7219

A nomination is not an acceptance into an academy.  It is the first step in the process.  Applicants will be notified in mid-December if they receive a nomination, but the individual academies make the decisions about actual acceptances.  Those completing a nomination application must also open a file with the academies. 

While the process is rigorous, the qualifications are achievable.  We are continuously impressed, but not surprised, by the talent and commitment of Idaho's youth.  Idaho has many promising young leaders, and we wish all those who are interested in this path the best in the process.  

You may access each delegation member's website through the following links:  https://www.crapo.senate.gov/; http://www.risch.senate.gov/; http://www.simpson.house.gov/; and http://www.labrador.house.gov/.

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