WASHINGTON (April 5, 2021) - Beginning today, April 5, 2021, until October 8, 2021, the Office of U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) will accept applications from high school students and recent high school graduates seeking a service academy nomination. Being nominated is a significant honor and the application process is rigorous. 

"Each year, I have the honor of nominating talented young leaders to our military service academies," said Heinrich. "These opportunities provide exceptional education and training that prepare students for leadership roles in our armed forces as well as the skills needed to succeed after their military service." 

Nominations are based on an evaluation of life experience, leadership, extracurricular activities, academic grades, SAT/ACT test scores, and three letters of recommendation. Based on the applicant’s interview with Senator Heinrich’s advisory panel, applicants are recommended to Senator Heinrich for final approval. Following Senator Heinrich’s nomination, final appointments will be made by each academy. 

Each academy prides itself on producing our nation's next generation of military leaders. Four of the five service academies--U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy--require a Congressional, Vice-Presidential, or service-connected nomination. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination. 

Prospective applicants or parents are encouraged to visit Senator Heinrich's Academy Nominations page for application deadlines and more information about the nomination process. Senator Heinrich is committed to a transparent and inclusive academy nominations process that will help ensure every student has an equal chance to serve, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status.