™Navy & Marine Corps · APPLICATION STARTER GUIDE
U.S. Naval Academy
Annapolis, Maryland
Check your eligibility
U.S. citizenship by July 1; at least 17 and not past your 23rd birthday on July 1 of entry year; unmarried, not pregnant and no dependents.
Standard U.S. applicant route. Check official instructions for special applicant categories.
Nomination routes
A congressional nomination is one route. Other authorized sources may include the Vice President, presidential or service-connected categories, depending on eligibility. Apply to every source for which you qualify. Official nomination guidance ↗
Your application checklist
- Submit the preliminary application; do not wait for a nomination to start.
- Request nominations from eligible sources and track their separate requirements.
- Arrange transcripts, English and math teacher evaluations, and activity verification.
- Complete the CFA, medical review and Blue and Gold Officer interview as directed.
What stands out in this application
Academics and leadership receive equal headline weight
USNA publishes a Whole Person Multiple split between academics (50%) and leadership/experiences (50%), with a fitness adjustment of up to ±5%. Within the academic component, math test scores receive more weight than verbal scores (18% versus 10% of the overall score). Official guidance ↗
CadetScope preparation tip: Show substantive leadership and experiences alongside strong coursework. A high test score is only one part of the application.
SAT & ACT snapshot
Middle 50% · Class of 2029; not averages
SAT: Verbal 600–710 · Math 610–720
ACT: Math 26–32 · English + Reading 49–66 (combined; ACT-equivalent figures)
Historical statistics, not minimums or admission guarantees. Section figures are not composite scores.
Dates to put on your calendar
For Class of 2031, start by December 31, 2026 and complete the application by January 31, 2027. CLT joins SAT and ACT for the 2027 entering class.
Official sources reviewed September 17, 2026. This CadetScope summary is a starting point; the academy’s current application instructions control. Admission is competitive and meeting minimum eligibility does not guarantee an appointment.
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