KINGS POINT, NY - As of March 10, 2023, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) has rescinded the requirement that Midshipmen be vaccinated against COVID-19. 

On October 20, 2021, USMMA implemented the COVID-19 vaccine requirement as a measure to help protect the health and safety of our midshipmen on campus and while at sea. In light of the Department of Defense’s vaccine mandate recission, and the availability of Sea Year training billets for unvaccinated Midshipmen on vessels, we reevaluated the need for the COVID vaccination.

Commercial carriers’ COVID-19 vaccination policies vary, and their policies may impact a midshipman’s ability to train on a vessel if a COVID vaccine is required. The Academy will continually monitor carrier policies and alert a midshipman if their COVID-19 vaccination status will impact whether they can embark on a commercial vessel. 

Applicants for the Class of 2027 will be admitted without regard to their COVID-19 vaccination status.