To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, an applicant must have a nomination from an authorized nominating source. Title 10, U.S. Code, establishes two nomination categories -- congressional and military service-connected. Applicants who meet eligibility requirements may apply to receive nominations in both categories. 

Members of the United States Senate and the House of Representatives may nominate applicants who meet the eligibility requirements established by law. Senators Biden and Carper as well as Representative Castle nominate applicants from the entire state of Delaware. 

Applicants may also apply to the Vice President of the United States, who can nominate applicants at large. Applicants should apply to the service academy of their choice in the spring of their junior year in high school and request a nomination from the appropriate nomination source shortly thereafter. 

If you are interested in seeking a congressional nomination for an upcoming class, write my office at 201 N. Walnut Street, Suite 107, Wilmington, Delaware 19801-3970, and request an application. Applicant files must be complete by October 31st of the year prior to the start of the class. For example, if you want to enter in the Class of 2010, files must be submitted by October 31, 2009.  You should also contact the academy of your choice to establish an admissions file.

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