United States Coast Guard Parent Guide

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About the United States Coast Guard Academy

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Fast Facts

  • Smallest of the five U.S. federal military academies
  • Four-year Bachelor of Science degree program
  • Founded in 1876 aboard the schooner Dobbin
  • Highly selective
  • No tuition
  • No congressional nomination necessary
  • Holistic education includes academics, physical fitness, character and leadership
  • Multiple roles of multi-mission, maritime Coast Guard accommodate diverse interests
  • 2 graduates are NASA astronauts
  • 80% of graduates go to graduate school (most paid for by the Coast Guard)
  • Over 80% of graduates choose to serve beyond their five-year commitment

Corps of Cadets (Student Body)

  • 1,017 cadets enrolled
  • Nearly every U.S. state and 15 foreign nations represented
  • 100% of students housed on campus
  • 23 varsity athletic teams (20 division III, 3 division I)
  • 29% of cadets are women
  • 17% of cadets are minorities
  • 1 faculty member for every 8 students
  • 19 cadets in an average class

Class of 2014

  • 2,223 completed the application process
  • 385 appointments were offered
  • 289 cadets were sworn in
  • 26% in the top 5% of high school class
  • 51% in the top 10% of high school class
  • 87% in the top 25% of high school class
  • 86% earned a varsity letter in high school
  • 60% were team captains in high school
  • 28% were in a band or chorus members
  • 26% were officers in student government
  • 41% attended AIM
  • 76% intend a technical major
  • 24% intend a major in Government or Management

Standardized Test Scores

  • Median SAT:  650 Math, 610 Verbal, 1260 Combined
  • Median ACT: 28 Math, 27 English
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