Military Academies
Understanding Military Academies
What Are Military Academies?
Military academies are colleges run by the U.S. government. You’ll get a full undergraduate education while training to become an officer in the military. You'll live on campus, wear a uniform, and take classes just like any other college student. Plus leadership and physical training.
After graduation, you’ll serve in the branch you trained for, typically for five years. You can choose any of the branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Merchant Marine.
Why Consider a Military Academy?
- The opportunity to make a difference by serving your country
- No tuition or student loans
- Free housing, meals, and health care
- A guaranteed job after graduation
- Learn leadership, teamwork, and discipline
- Explore majors in engineering, science, and more
How to Apply
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Choose Your Academy
Each service academy has its own mission and focus. All combine college academics with leadership training, military preparation, and physical fitness. Take time to explore each one and see which path feels right for you.
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Confirm Your Eligibility
In addition to general eligibility requirements, the different academies have academic, leadership, medical, and physical requirements. While some requirements vary by academy, in general, they include that you:
- Be a U.S. citizen by July 1 of the year you plan to start
- Be at least 17 and not yet 23 on July 1 of that year
- Be unmarried, with no children or dependents
- Have a valid Social Security number
Once you know you're eligible, you can begin your preliminary application to open your candidate file.
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Apply for a Nomination
Most military academies require a nomination from a U.S. senator, representative, or the vice president. You’re encouraged to apply to more than one office, since nominations are competitive. Be ready to submit transcripts, test scores, essays, and recommendation letters. The U.S. Coast Guard does not require a nomination.
The deadline in Montana to apply for a nomination is November 1 to start the next school year.
Jump to More About Nominations -
Take Medical & Fitness Tests
You’ll need to pass a medical exam by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB) and take a fitness test called the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA). It checks your strength, speed, and endurance.
About DoDMERB -
Submit all Documents & Schedule Interviews
Each academy may ask for different materials, but most require your official transcripts, test scores, a personal essay, and recommendation letters.
Some academies require a separate interview as part of their admissions process — not related to your nomination. If needed, they’ll contact you to schedule this after reviewing your application materials.
Applying For Your Nomination
- You can — and should — apply for nominations from multiple sources. It’s a competitive process, and having more than one nomination improves your chances.
- In Montana, you can request nominations from your U.S. senators, representatives, and the vice president.
- You’ll need to start your academy application before your nomination interview.
- Deadline: Submit applications by November 1 for the next school year.
Who to Contact
The following elected officials accept nomination requests from Montana students:
- Senator Tim Sheehy
- Senator Steve Daines
- Representative Ryan Zinke
- Representative Troy Downing
- Vice President JD Vance
Note: Vice President JD Vance cannot nominate students to the Marine Corps.
Get More Information
Check your current senator's website for everything from important dates to tips on how to prepare. Get all of your questions answered in one place.