Message from the Senator

Thank you for your interest in being nominated to a United States Service Academy. Service to your country and fellow citizens is one of the highest callings in the career field.

A nomination to a service academy is only the first step in the appointment process. With the individual academies making the final decision in accepting a nominee, it is important that you open a file with the academy as well. The information you send to the academy will be used in consideration of your appointment.

  • The deadline to submit online applications ended on October 30. Access previously submitted applications here.
  • Submit a cover letter explaining why you want to attend an academy (100 words or less) due by November 30
  • The following documents need to be mailed in one complete mailing envelope.
    • Completed principal/guidance counselor form in a sealed envelope
    • Three letters of reference (not from a family member) in sealed envelopes
    • Transcript of your grades with class rank and GPA at the end of your junior year
    • SAT or ACT scores

The due dates are very important.

The complete packet must be in my Coeur d’Alene office by November 30. The address is 610 W. Hubbard St., Ste 213, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, 83814. If you have any questions please contact Vicki Fulton at (208) 667-6130 or e-mail her at Vicki_Fulton@Risch.senate.gov . She will be happy to assist you.

Nominations will be announced in mid-December. Although the process is lengthy and very competitive, the opportunities you will have if selected are tremendous. I wish you the best of luck as you seek this nomination.

Very Truly Yours,

James E. Risch
United States Senator

Coast Guard Nominations

The United States Coast Guard Academy does not require congressional nominations. If you are interested in attending the USCG Academy, you should contact the Academy directly at USCGA, Admissions Office, New London, Connecticut 06320 (www.cga.edu) or by calling 1-(800)-883-8724.

Additional Application Forms