I'm interested in attending the US Merchant Marine Academy but I heard there might be an age limit for applying. Can anyone confirm if that's true and what the age restrictions are?
Yes, you're correct. The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) does have an age limit for applicants. Applicants must not be less than 17 years of age and for a normal appointment, they must not have passed their 25th birthday by July 1st in the year of entrance.
This age limit is in place likely because the USMMA is more than a typical college. Based on the information on their website, a degree from the USMMA is intended to lead directly into a career in the marine industry, so it follows a precise track which may not be conducive to older students with different career paths or those seeking a non-traditional college experience. However, age waivers may be granted. Please directly contact the admissions office of the academy to get the most accurate and current information.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.