I have the opportunity to nominate Mississippi students to join our nation’s service academies. Congressional nominations are sent to the U.S. Military Academy (West Point); U.S. Air Force Academy; U.S. Naval Academy; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Although congressional nominations are not sent to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, I am happy to assist in the application process.

My nomination functions as a recommendation to the academies, and I have a responsibility to put forward the most qualified young people in Mississippi. This process is separate from the application that must be completed for the academies.

I look forward to receiving your application materials. Please review the following information carefully and be sure to submit all of the required information.

Please use this checklist when compiling the following application requirements:

  1. Online Application and Questionanaire
  2. Checklist Items:
    • Essay (500 words max) explaining why you wish to attend a Service Academy
    • Official Academic Transcripts
    • Official ACT and/or SAT scores (composite scores)
    • Three (3) Recommendation Letters from non-relatives, at least one of which must be from a teacher or school official
    • Resume

Important Information:

  • Applications are due by December 1. Senator Wicker nominates by December 15 of each year, and the academies determine who receives appointments by April 1 of the following year.
  • Congressional nominations do not guarantee acceptance to the service academies; they only assure that your application will be considered first by the review boards.
  • Most students who receive appointment offers are active at school and in their communities.  Many hold leadership roles in sports and other extracurricular activities.
  • It is in your best interest to request nomination through all sources available to you: Presidential, Vice Presidential, Senatorial, and your U.S. Representative. If your father or mother serves or served in the military, or was killed in action, you may be eligible for a Presidential nomination. Please contact the Service Academy to which you're applying for more information.
  • To receive a nomination from your U.S. Representative, visit here to learn who yours is, and then contact their office.