The U.S. Armed Forces operate five service academies that provide a top-tier 4-year education. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science degree and become officers in their military branch. Tuition, fees, housing, meals, and healthcare are fully covered, along with a monthly stipend. In return, graduates commit to at least five years of service.
Securing admission to the academies is highly competitive, hinging on various factors such as high school GPA, ACT/SAT scores, leadership background, involvement in sports, extracurricular engagements, and community service. Furthermore, a letter of recommendation from a member of Congress is a mandatory component of the application process.
The service academies include:
- U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, New York (1-800-822-8762)
- U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, Maryland (1-800-638-9156)
- U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado (1-800-443-9266)
- U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, Connecticut (1-800-883-8724)
- U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, New York (1-866-546-4778)
