Qualifications

Who is qualified to apply for academy nomination(s)?

To apply for nomination from me you must be a New Mexico resident. You must also be at least 17 years old and not have passed your 23rd birthday on July 1 of the year of admission.

Once you have acquired a nomination from me, the academy you apply to must determine you to be scholastically qualified. You must also be medically qualified and must pass the physical examination for the academy.

What selection process do you use for nominations?

Each Member of Congress has a unique process for selecting nominees. For my purposes, I have appointed four panels of New Mexico citizens of varied professions and interests. Your application is first reviewed by my staff for completeness. Then in the fall you will be interviewed by the panel geographically closest to you. The panel evaluates your merits as a candidate and then makes recommendations to me.

What qualities are found in a successful academy nominee?

Successful nominees are serious about their interest in a military career and are determined to persevere and succeed at the academy. There are many indicators for these qualities, including academic excellence and participation in various extracurricular activities, including sports.

What classes should I take in High School to be more competitive?

There are many classes that you should take to make you a more competitive candidate. Here is a quick list of subjects and the classes that you should take.

Mathematics: Take a math class every year, including geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. If you can, take a pre-calculus or calculus class.

Science: Take a chemistry class with a lab.  A physics class and lab will also make you more competitive.

English: Take an English class every year, and make sure you focus on how to write effectively. If your school offers courses in English and American literature, take them if they do not interfere with other classes.

Foreign Language: Try to take at least two years of a foreign language. This includes both the spoken language and a study of its syntax and grammar.

History: Take a full year of U.S. History, and if you can, a full year of European or World History.

APPLICATION PROCESS

You should complete the application as early as possible.  [MORE]

NOMINATIONS

I make ten nominations to each academy each year. [MORE]

LINKS TO ACADEMIES

You should visit the websites for the academies to which you are applying to learn more about them. [MORE]