Senator Graham has the honor of nominating qualified candidates to compete for appointment to the United States Service Academies each year. Senator Graham and his Academy Nominations Board work hard to ensure that the commitment to all service members is upheld by selecting the best suited future military leaders. Senator Graham’s applicants complete a thorough application and selection process, ensuring that the most qualified candidates are nominated to lead the U.S. Military and U.S. flagged ships sailing around the world. Senator Graham offers assistance to prospective nominees throughout their high school careers, and students can request information and assistance anytime.

Admission to a U.S. Service Academy is a two-step process.

Step 1: Apply Directly to the Academy

Candidates must apply directly to the Service Academy they wish to attend. The five U.S. Service Academies seek highly qualified applicants who demonstrate excellence in academics, physical fitness, leadership, extracurricular involvement, character, motivation and aptitude for military service. Applicants must also meet the Academy's medical and eligibility requirements.

Step 2: Obtain a Congressional Nomination

In addition to meeting the Academy’s admissions requirements, most applicants must receive a nomination from an authorized nominating source, such as a Member of Congress, in order to be considered for an appointment. A nomination does not guarantee admission, but it is a required part of the application process for most Service Academies.

Note: A Congressional nomination is not required for admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

An applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements as of July 1st of the year of admission to a Service Academy:

• Must be a United States citizen

• Must be a legal resident of South Carolina

• Must be at least 17 years of age, but cannot have passed their 23rd birthday
The US Merchant Marine Academy varies slightly, allowing individuals between the ages of 17 and 25 to apply.

• Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy (contact the Academies directly for more information regarding their standards)

• Cannot be pregnant or have a legal obligation to support children or other dependents

High school seniors for the class of 2027 will need to complete the application for nomination by October 16, 2026. 

APPLY HERE for Nomination