• A citizen of the United States. Your citizenship must be finalized prior to entering the Academy. You must submit proof of citizenship if you were foreign born or naturalized. Authorized international students are exempt from this requirement.
• Unmarried with no dependents.
• Of good moral character.
• At least 17, but less than 23 years of age by July 1 of the year you would enter. The age requirement is public law and cannot be waived.
• Of high leadership, academic, physical and medical standards.

Social Security Number

You must have a social security number to open an admissions file. If you don’t have one, ask for an SSA-5 Form from your local Social Security Administration Office. You must furnish evidence of your date of birth, identity and U.S. citizenship. For tax purposes, international students will obtain a valid social security account number when they arrive.

Transcripts and Activities Record

You must submit your entire scholastic record from secondary school, as well as transcripts from any preparatory school or college you’ve attended. High school students must submit their current rank in class, if known and we need a high school activities record outlining your performance in extracurricular or other activities that indicate leadership potential.

Birth Certificate

You must use your name as it appears on your birth certificate on all official records unless the Admissions Office has received legal evidence authorizing a name change. If you are adopted and claim eligibility in a nominating category through an adoptive parent, you must submit a copy of the court order of adoption. Also, adoption proceedings must have begun before your 15th birthday. You must submit proof of citizenship if you were foreign born or naturalized.

Travel Expenses

Appointees will receive instructions concerning reimbursement for travel to the Academy. Travel allowances will be credited to your personal checking account. If you refuse to take the Oath of Allegiance upon arrival at the Academy, or are disqualified for admission because of some fault of your own, you will not be entitled to reimbursement.

Service Obligations

Before you take the Oath of Allegiance, you’ll sign an agreement (with the consent of your parents or guardian if you are a minor) stating that you will fulfill the service obligations and corresponding policies found here, which apply to all cadets except international students.