Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basis of your admissions process?

The admissions process at the CGA 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 evaluation process, we grade your accomplishments and evaluate your potential for success at the Academy. Depending on the score given by 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 300.

Is there an online application form?

Yes. The only way to apply is now online. We no longer accept or mail out paper applications or supplemental forms.

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. Students who accept their appointment submit a $3,000 deposit. This will cover initial uniforms, new laptop computer, and miscellaneous items.

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 www.uscga.edu 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 every Monday, Friday and select Wednesdays (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 at www.uscga.edu; select the Admissions tab followed by Schedule a Visit.

How many people apply for admission?

Over 4,000 applicants start the process each year. Nearly 2,000 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 application deadline for AIM is April 1st of the student’s junior year.