Military Academy Nominations - FAQ
Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Military Academy nomination. You may also fill out a Military Academy Nominations Form to receive your application on September 2, 2024 via email.
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 Congressional District of North Carolina.
- Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
Who do I contact to request an application?
You may express interest by using the following online form to Contact the office and request a nomination application. Please note that nomination applications will be sent via email to students on September 2, 2024.
When do I apply for a nomination?
The nomination application period for the office of Congresswoman Alma Adams opens on September 2, 2024 for candidates who are high school seniors or recent graduates within the allowed age range.
What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?
The deadline for submitting a nomination packet to the District Office is November 12, 2024. Your packet should be mailed to the following address:
Office of Congresswoman Alma Adams
10815 David Taylor Drive, Suite 100
Charlotte, NC 28262
What must be included in my nomination file?
- A complete nomination file consists of the following items:
- American College Testing Program (ACT) results and/or College Board Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) results
- Minimum of three letters of recommendation
- One Math teacher
- One English teacher
- One letter from a non-relative
- High school transcript
- An essay stating why you want to attend a service academy (500 words or less)
- Current photo
What happens after I have completed my nomination file?
Applicants who submit a completed nomination file by November 12, 2024 will be scheduled for an interview shortly thereafter.
What criteria is used in selecting candidates?
Nominations are based on a "whole person" evaluation by our board of Academy alum and Veterans. 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.
- 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
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. Ensure that you diversify your interest in academies. Your first choice may not have enough vacancies for admission.
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.