Frequently asked Questions about Service Academy Nominations

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
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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 (Note: For Merchant Marine, must not have passed the 25th birthday)
  • Citizenship: Must be a United States 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 11th Congressional District of Florida.
  • Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy.
  • Never been convicted of violating a state or federal statute.
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How do I request a nomination application?
To request a nomination packet, please complete the service academy nomination application request form.  For additional information, please call my Service Academy Coordinator in my District Office at 352-241-9220. Return to Top
When do I apply for a nomination?
My nomination application period opens in May of each year for those candidates who are high school juniors and will be seniors the following school year, seniors, or those who have already graduated. Return to Top
What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?

The deadline for submitting a completed nomination packet to the District Office will be this fall. Nomination Packets can be mailed to:

The Office of Congressman Daniel Webster
ATTN: Samantha Shylkofski
1200 Oakley Seaver Drive, Suite 203
Clermont, FL 34711
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What must be included in my nomination file?

A complete nomination file consists of the below items. Please carefully review the detailed instructions in the nomination packet.

  • Completed service academy nomination application
  • Current wallet sized photo
  • Official high school transcript
  • Official American College Testing Program (ACT) results and/or College Board Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) results
  • Two 500-800 word essays stating why you want to attend a service academy and serve as an officer in the United States Armed Forces, and what you see yourself doing in ten years in terms of personal, professional, and family goals
  • Academic recommendation form completed by high school principal or guidance counselor
  • Three recommendation forms
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What happens after I have completed my nomination file?

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

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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. Return to Top
How many academies are there?

There are five service academies:

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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. Return to Top
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. Return to Top
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 the year's pool of candidates. It is also possible to win multiple appointments.

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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. Return to Top