Scott accepting applications for service academy nominations

One of a limited number of people, who can nominate a person to be accepted to one of four service academies, is now accepting applications.

U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, R-SC, will accept applications through Friday, Oct. 18, at 5 p.m. for rising high school seniors or graduates interested in attending the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy or U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

A candidate may seek a nomination from either a member of the U.S. House of Representatives who represents the congressional district in which the candidate resides, both U.S. senators from his or her state or the vice president.

According to Scott’s website, his office receives between 100 and 200 applications a year. During the academic year, he nominated 37 students from across South Carolina to be considered for an appointment to be in the Class of 2023.

“I am especially humbled by our high school students who make the decision to pursue a military career at such a young age,” Scott said in a news release. “For those that decide they want to apply to one of our service academies, you are choosing to take on one of the most challenging and rigorous collegiate curriculum our country has to offer.”

Students interested in being considered for a nomination by Scott must submit an application that includes two essays, a resume, official SAT/ACT scores, official high school transcripts and three letters of recommendation.

Attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation.

Applicants must be between 17 and 23 years old; a U.S. citizen; unmarried, not pregnant and without legal obligation to support children or other dependents; a South Carolina resident; and able to meet medical, physical and academic requirements of the academy to which they apply.

Nominations are based on a “whole person” evaluation, according to Scott’s FAQ page, examining factors such as academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills, physical aptitude, the interview, character and motivation.

For more information about the nomination process, visit https://www.scott.senate.gov/ or call the Service Academy Coordinator at (803) 771-6112.