Approximately 280 candidates enter USMMA each year. Admission to USMMA is a highly selective, merit-based process that evaluates each candidate using a competitive scoring system. Appointments are offered to applicants who demonstrate the strongest overall qualifications based on multiple components, including:

• Academic achievement (rigor of coursework and class standing) 
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) 
• Extracurricular involvement and leadership experience 
• Teacher evaluations 
• Written essay

Fully qualified candidates are placed on a state-based order of merit list according to their competitive score and are appointed in rank order to fill annual state allocations. To be fully qualified, candidates must meet academic, medical and physical requirements, and must receive a congressional nomination to USMMA. 

Highly competitive candidates may be given conditional offers that are contingent upon full qualification as early as September.

• The application window opens on May 1st of your junior year and closes on February 1st of your senior year. 
• Research the nomination process and timeline for your congressional offices as application deadlines vary. 
• Schedule your medical examinations as soon as possible to ensure you meet the April 16th medical qualification deadline