United States Senator Al Franken’s office is now accepting applications from young Minnesotans interested in attending one of the nation’s four military service academies, including the United States Military Academy at West Point, the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy. In order to attend a service academy, candidates must be nominated by a member of Congress. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 28.

“Each year, I’m proud to nominate several talented Minnesotans to our four U.S. Military Service Academies,” Sen. Franken said. “I’m happy to assist eligible Minnesotans in the nomination process, and I look forward to helping our future leaders seek admission to these prestigious academies.”

To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, an applicant must meet the eligibility requirements established by law. An applicant’s academic record, extracurricular and athletic activities, physical aptitude, leadership ability and medical qualifications are all considered. A list of specific requirements and an application can be found at http://www.franken.senate.gov/?p=service_academy. 

To be considered for a nomination, send a completed application with all required materials to Sen. Al Franken, Attn. Nominations Coordinator, 60 Plato Boulevard E, Suite 220, St. Paul, MN 55107 or by email to serviceacademies@franken.senate.gov.

For the academy classes entering in the summer of 2017 and graduating in 2021, the deadline for applying is 5 p.m. Oct. 28.