Does the United States Naval Academy have a public or private status?

I want to know if the US Naval Academy is considered a public or private institution. How does its status affect tuition and admissions? I'm trying to understand how its funding and resources might differ from typical universities.

The United States Naval Academy (USNA) is a federal service academy, which is a unique classification unto itself and doesn't quite fit into the typical public versus private dichotomy found in standard higher education institutions. In terms of governance and funding, USNA is a public institution as it is funded by the federal government.

In terms of tuition, all midshipmen (students at the academy) have their tuition fully covered by the Navy in return for an active duty service obligation upon graduation. Essentially, this means that students don't have to worry about paying tuition or room and board.

Lastly, concerning the admissions process, the Naval Academy is extremely competitive due to the limited number of spots each year and the institution's prestigious reputation. Unlike traditional colleges, students must obtain a nomination, often from a member of Congress, as a part of their application. The vetting process also includes physical exams and interviews in addition to the standard academic examinations and assessments.

It's also worth noting that the resources and academic offerings at the Naval Academy may differ from typical universities in that there is a heavy emphasis on leadership development and physical fitness in addition to a rigorous academic curriculum. This is intertwined with the mission of preparing students to become officers in the Navy or Marine Corps.