Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. Service Academies: the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

The Academies provide students the opportunity to receive a preeminent education from some of our finest institutions on a full scholarship while training physically and preparing mentally to protect and defend our nation. The honor of attending a Service Academy comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation.

To be eligible to attend a Service Academy, applicants must be:

  • a U.S. citizen;

  • unmarried with no dependents;

  • between the ages of 17 and 23 (on the first of July of the year they wish to be admitted); and

  • of good moral character.

Additionally, you or your parents must claim domicile in South Dakota in order to apply for a nomination from my office. Proof of documentation may be required.

Congressman Dusty Johnson Nomination Information

Senator Mike Rounds Nomination Information

Senator John Thune Nomination Information