Appointments

Candidates are appointed competitively by the Academy for the vacancies allocated to their state or geographical area. Each state has an assigned number of appointees proportionate to its representation in Congress. After the Academy has selected its principal appointees, the remaining qualified candidates will be designated as alternates, to be appointed in order of merit should openings occur within their states. In the event that a state fails to satisfy its allotment, appointments to fill the unfilled vacancies are determined from the national list of alternates, ranked in order of merit as described in the previous paragraph. A candidate's competitive standing is established by test scores on the standardized SAT I or ACT examination, high school class rank, academic record, evidence of leadership potential, interest in a maritime career, and other factors that are considered effective indicators of motivation and probable completion of training. Bonus points are awarded to candidates with at least six months of sea service aboard merchant or naval vessels.

Early Notification of Admission
Highly qualified candidates may receive early notification of their appointment after complete evaluation of their qualifications. All other candidates will be notified of their status on or about April 10 of the year in which they seek admission.

Orientation/Briefing Day for Principal Candidates
All principal candidates are invited to visit the Academy on a selected date in mid-April for a briefing program. Candidates have an opportunity to meet and discuss the Academy's program with midshipmen, faculty and administrative personnel. Attendance is strictly voluntary. Travel arrangements and expenses must be borne by the candidates.