What are the requirements for the United States Merchant Marine Academy?

I'm interested in applying to the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Can anyone tell me what the main requirements are for admission? What should I focus on during high school to be a strong candidate?

The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) has a unique set of requirements compared to typical universities due to it being a service academy. It's not just about your academic or extracurricular achievements, though they are certainly crucial; it also involves physical fitness and a commitment to service. Here are some areas you should focus on:

Academics: Strong academic performance in high school is important, particularly in math and science courses. Rigorous coursework, like AP classes, is highly valued. Scoring well on the SAT or ACT, especially in the math sections, is critical as well.

Extracurricular Participation: Involvement in extracurricular activities, especially leadership roles or team activities, showcases your ability to work well with others, which is a critical skill at a service academy.

Fitness: You need to pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), which displays your physical aptitude. Incorporating regular physical training into your high school routine will prepare you for this aspect of the application.

Service Obligation: Consider if you're prepared for the service obligation after graduation. USMMA graduates have multiple service options available, either in the U.S. Merchant Marine, any branch of the military, or another maritime profession.

Nomination: You'll need to secure a nomination, typically from a U.S. Representative or Senator.

Medical Qualifications: Applicants must also pass a medical examination, which is conducted by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board.

It's also important to start the application process early because of the various components involved. Connecting with USMMA admissions representatives, attending academy-related events, or taking part in a program like the summer AIM Program can help you understand the academy's expectations and what life would be like as a midshipman. Be sure to focus on your overall physical, academic, and leadership preparation throughout this process.