Service Academy Nominations

Applications for the Class of 2031 open on April 1, 2026

As a proud Marine Corps veteran, Senator Gallego is honored to select outstanding Arizona residents for nomination to the following service academies: the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, and the U.S. Naval Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require congressional nominations.

Students who are selected receive a free undergraduate degree from one of the most prestigious colleges in the nation – service academies are tuition-free and include full room and board. After graduation, students receive a commission as an officer. 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. 

If you have any questions about the nomination process, please contact our team at service_academies@gallego.senate.gov. 

Best wishes to you as you pursue your goal of attending one of the U.S. Service Academies and serving our country!

Requirements for Senator Gallego’s consideration:

  1. High school transcript
  2. Resume with extracurricular activities including any leadership, community service, athletics, and other activities
  3. An essay stating why you want to attend a service academy (500 words or less)
  4. Three letters of recommendation

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and legal resident of Arizona;
  • Must be unmarried;
  • Must not be pregnant and have no legal obligation to provide financial support for children or other dependents; 
  • Must be at least 17 years old, but not have passed their 23rd birthday (25th birthday for the Merchant Marine Academy);
  • Must be qualified to commit to a minimum of five years of active duty service upon graduation from an Academy.

For more information on the Service Academy’s process: 

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy no longer requires a Congressional nomination for appointment. Applications must therefore be made directly to the Academy.