What is the difference between a nomination and an appointment?
A nomination is required in order to receive an appointment, but does not guarantee an appointment to a service academy. Appointments are invitations to attend the service academy, but cannot be made without a nomination. Once a nomination is made, it is up to the service academy to determine whether the nominee meets the qualifying admission requirements of the academy and will be offered an appointment. All nominating sources officially notify the service academies of their nominees by the end of January.
A nomination is required in order to receive an appointment. All students can apply to their congressman, senators, and the Vice President for a nomination. Alternative nomination sources are also available. Applying for a nomination is a separate process from applying to the Naval Academy. All nominating sources officially notify the Naval Academy of their nominees by the end of January. Students should apply to all the nomination sources for which they are eligible. Appointments are invitations to attend the Naval Academy. In a typical year, approximately 4,000 candidates receive nominations. However, only 1,500 appointments will be given out. In other words, obtaining a nomination in no way guarantees that a candidate will receive an appointment. You will be notified of your appointment status by the middle of April.
