Interested in attending a U.S. service academy? Applications open soon!

Dear Friend,

I can say with confidence that my experience in the military shaped the person I am today. As a former naval flight officer and a retired U.S. Navy captain, I appreciate the education, leadership and life skills gained through our military, including at our nation’s service academies: The U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. 

That’s why, last week, I — along with my colleagues U.S. Senator Chris Coons and U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester — held our annual Service Academy Night at Delaware Technical Community College. Young Delawareans from all around the state were able to come to learn more about the incredible opportunities service academies provide. This year was our 19th year holding this event, and I think it was our best one yet with over 300 students in attendance!

Being accepted into any one of our nation’s service academies is a high honor. Students accepted into these institutions are given a unique opportunity to obtain an excellent education, serve their country and gain valuable leadership skills that will guide them as they become our nation’s next generation of  leaders.

Each year, members of Congress nominate young men and women for the opportunity to be appointed to one of these schools. Knowing the impact military service had on my life, I take this opportunity very seriously. The academies seek future leaders who are well-rounded individuals, which includes having good moral character, a commendable academic record, medical and physical fitness, the desire to serve and the motivation to lead. For a list of specific requirements for nomination, please click here.

If you — or someone you know — might be interested in attending one of our nation’s service academies, but were unable to make it to our informational night last week, don’t fear! Here are some of the next steps you should take:

You should begin the nomination process by creating your online account with your personal password. By creating this account, you are notifying me of your interest in a nomination to a U.S. Service Academy. Click here to create an account and access the online application. We will begin accepting applications open on April 15, 2020, and the deadline to submit your application is October 15, 2020 at midnight. Your application will be reviewed once the deadline passes. If you meet the general requirements, you will be contacted in writing to sit for an interview with my Service Academy Selection Board. Nominations are announced in January and candidates are notified in writing. For more information on each of the U.S. Service Academies, please click here.

I hope you will share this information with someone you know who would make a great candidate for a service academy nomination and would like the honor of serving our country.

God bless,

Tom Carper