Are There Scholarships Available at the Naval Academy?

I'm exploring potential options for financial assistance at the Naval Academy. Does anyone know what kind of scholarships or financial aid programs are offered, and how I can apply for them?

The United States Naval Academy, like other service academies, offers a fully-funded education in return for a commitment to serve in the military after graduation. This means all students attend for free, including tuition, room and board, and even medical and dental care. Stipends are also provided to cover the costs of uniforms, books, and other necessary supplies.

In addition, midshipmen receive a monthly stipend. However, it's important to remember that your main "obligation" at the U.S. Naval Academy is a service commitment after graduation, which typically is at least five years of active-duty service.

Given this structure, traditional scholarships or financial aid programs as they exist in typical colleges and universities are not applicable in the same sense for service academies. However, for those attending the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), a program designed to prepare selected students for admission to the Naval Academy, there can be additional financial aid available.

While you won't apply for financial aid in a traditional sense, the admissions process for the Naval Academy is highly competitive and you'll need to secure a nomination from a congressional representative or other official in addition to meeting the rigorous physical and academic criteria. A high school guidance counselor can typically provide more information about this process and direct you to the relevant people and resources to earn a nomination and gain admission. If accepted, you'll be able to access the benefits of the fully-funded education without needing to apply for additional scholarships or aid.