Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basis of your admissions process?

The admissions process at the USCGA is similar to the admissions process at any highly selective, engineering-oriented college. When members of the Cadet Candidate Evaluation Board (CCEB) review your application package, both objective and subjective criteria are used.

In this process, we evaluate your accomplishments and potential for success at the Academy. Depending on the recommendations of the CCEB, you are either accepted, held for further review, or not accepted.

How many cadets are there at the Coast Guard Academy?

Approximately 1000.

What is the size of the incoming class?

The average entering class size is 290.

Is there an online application form?

Yes, for your convenience, the online application is available on our website.  It is typically released during the summer prior to your senior year. We encourage you to apply for Early Action acceptance.

Do I need a Congressional Nomination?

No. Admittance is based solely on personal merit.

How much does it cost?

There are no application fees and no tuition expense.

What academic majors does CGA offer?

There are eight majors at the Coast Guard Academy: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture/Marine Engineering, Operations Research/Computer Analysis, Marine and Environmental Sciences, Management, and Government. Visit our Web site for more information.

Are there any special requirements for home-schooled students?

There are no special requirements for the home-schooled, except that the curriculum used must have been accredited. Home-schooled applicants compete equally with traditionally taught students. It is recommended that home-schooled students take, as part of their curriculum, courses at a local community college. The teacher recommendations should be done by the college instructors when practical.

Can I visit the Academy?

Yes. The Academy grounds are open to the public year round. The Admissions Office is open from Monday through Friday (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). We offer a formal Admissions briefing most Mondays and Fridays (excluding holidays) at 1:00 p.m. followed by a campus tour at 2:00 p.m. by a Coast Guard Academy cadet.

If you are interested in visiting the Admissions Office or attending one of the briefings, visit our web site; select the Admissions tab followed by Schedule a Visit.

How many people apply for admission?

Over 5,000 applicants start the process each year.  Over 2,000 complete the application process and are ultimately evaluated for an appointment and approximately 400 full appointments are offered each year, depending on the targeted class size.

Is there a summer orientation program I could attend before deciding to apply?

Yes. There is an excellent summer program geared for high school students to attend the summer between their junior and senior years: Academy Introduction Mission (AIM). The AIM application is typically available online in February of the student’s junior year.