United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) Admissions: Step-by-Step Guide

Developing leaders of character who serve with honor, respect, and devotion to duty.

Unlike other service academies, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination. Admission is highly competitive, based solely on your academic, leadership, athletic, and character profile.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• U.S. citizen

• Ages 17–22 on July 1 of entry year

• Unmarried, no dependents

• Medically qualified under Coast Guard standards

Step 2: Open the Online Application

• Application opens May 1 of junior year

• Candidates provide:

  • Academic transcripts

  • SAT or ACT scores

  • Extracurriculars, athletics, leadership roles

Step 3: Take the SAT/ACT

• SAT Code: 5807

• ACT Code: 0600

• USCGA superscores across multiple test dates

• Competitive scores are often above the national average

Step 4: Submit Evaluations & Essays

• Teacher recommendations in English, Math, and Science

• Commanding Officer or coach evaluation (if applicable)

• Short essays and personal statement to demonstrate motivation and values

Step 5: Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)

The CFA includes six events in this sequence:

1. Basketball throw (kneeling)

2. Pull-ups (or flexed-arm hang for women)

3. Shuttle run

4. Crunches (2 minutes)

5. Push-ups (2 minutes)

6. One-mile run

Step 6: Medical Examination (DoDMERB)

• Scheduled after your application advances

• Must meet Coast Guard medical standards

• Waivers considered for strong candidates

Step 7: Admissions Review & Board Decisions

• Rolling reviews begin in the fall of senior year

• Early Action option available (deadline October 15)

• Regular Admission deadline is January 15

• Most appointments released by March–April

Step 8: Plan for AIM (Academy Introduction Mission)

• USCGA offers a selective summer program for rising seniors

• Highly recommended to apply—gives candidates a preview of Academy life

• Attending AIM strengthens your application

Step 9: Appointment to the Academy

• Approximately 300–400 cadets admitted annually

• All graduates receive a commission as an Ensign in the U.S. Coast Guard

✅ Tip for Families:
Start early, especially with standardized testing. Without the nomination process, USCGA admissions focuses heavily on academics, athletics, and leadership. Make sure your application shows balance across all three.

⚓ FAQs About USCGA Admissions

Do I need a nomination for USCGA?
No. The Coast Guard Academy is the only service academy that does not require a nomination.

What is AIM?
The Academy Introduction Mission is a week-long summer program for rising seniors to experience cadet life.

What’s the biggest difference from other service academies?
Smaller class sizes (around 300 cadets per year) and a focused mission on maritime safety, security, and stewardship.

📢 Ready to Start Your USCGA Journey?
Our team at Service Academy Consulting has helped countless students successfully navigate the Academy application process. We’ll mentor you through essays, fitness prep, interviews, and every step in between.