Service Academy Nominations

Thank you for your interest in the U.S. Service Academies. As your 16th District Representative in the U.S. House, each year I have the privilege of nominating a limited number of people to four of the five service academies. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Best wishes to you as you pursue your goal of attending a U.S. Service Academy and serving our country.

Service Academy Nomination FAQ

What is a nomination?

A candidate who meets the eligibility requirements established by law may seek a nomination from the following individuals:

  • 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
  • The Vice-President of the United States
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What are the basic eligibility requirements?

Each applicant for a nomination from me 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 16th Congressional District of Florida
  • Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy
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What must be included in my nomination file?

Do not wait until the day of (October 2nd, 2023) to submit your file. You need to allow time to compile all necessary items. A complete nomination file consists of the following items:

  • Application: https://buchanan.house.gov/service-academy-nominations-application
  • A cover letter that contains why you want to attend a service academy and why you believe you are qualified, as well as a headshot of you
  • A résumé that lists any job experience and extracurricular activities you want to note
  • Two personal recommendation letters addressed to Congressman Buchanan from someone who knows you best, but not a family member.
  • High school transcript, with final grades from Junior year and schedule of course work for senior year. Copy of college transcript, if applicable.
  • Copy of SAT and/or ACT scores. Congressman Buchanan codes are SAT-5389 and ACT-7336
  • Copy of a government issued ID
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Who do I contact about application questions?
  • Our nomination process for 2023 is now open. Applications and supporting documents are due on Monday, October 2nd at 5pm.
  • Interviews (15 minutes each) for eligible students will be held and each student, if chosen, will be notified of their appointment time.
  • If you have any questions, call our Bradenton office at 941-951-6643.
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How many academies are there?

There are five service academies.

Three reside within the Department of Defense:

One resides within the Department of Transportation:

One resides within the Department of Homeland Security:

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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 web sites noted for each academy's particular admissions qualifications.

It is not necessary to seek a nomination to the Coast Guard Academy. U.S.C.G.A. accepts candidates based on their own testing criteria.

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