United States Naval Academy: 10.8% Acceptance Rate

10.8%Acceptance

4,465Students

92%Grad Rate (6-yr)

Public4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalLiberal ArtsStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About United States Naval Academy

The Naval Academy transforms 4,465 midshipmen into military officers through one of America's most demanding undergraduate programs. This federal service academy has produced leaders like President Jimmy Carter and astronaut Alan Shepard since 1845. Students commit to five years of military service after graduation in exchange for a strong education in Annapolis. The acceptance rate of 10.75% reflects the academy's selectivity and the serious commitment required.

Every midshipman receives a full scholarship covering tuition, room, and board. Graduates earn a monthly salary as military officers immediately upon commissioning. The four-year graduation rate of 90.73% demonstrates that students who enter this program typically see it through to completion. This represents an strong financial deal since graduates begin their careers debt-free with guaranteed employment.

Men comprise 70.41% of the student body, reflecting military demographics. The 8:1 student-faculty ratio ensures intensive mentorship throughout the rigorous curriculum. Only 5.34% of students come from Maryland, as the academy draws nationally through congressional nominations. The 96.14% retention rate shows that students rarely transfer once they experience the unique brotherhood of military academy life. The annual Army-Navy football rivalry represents the fierce pride midshipmen develop in their service branch.

Academics & Faculty

The Naval Academy trains future military officers through a demanding curriculum that blends engineering, science, and leadership development. With an 8:1 student-faculty ratio, midshipmen receive intensive mentoring from professors and military instructors. The academy's 91% six-year graduation rate reflects the structured environment where students must meet both academic and military standards. Engineering and science programs dominate the curriculum, preparing graduates for technical roles in the Navy and Marine Corps. The academy requires all students to complete courses in naval science, navigation, and weapons systems alongside traditional academics. Students who struggle academically receive mandatory tutoring and study sessions. The rigorous program produces officers ready for immediate military service upon graduation.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Full-Time Faculty: 97.4%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 90.7%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 91.8%
Retention Rate: 96.1%
Carnegie Classification: Liberal Arts College

Campus Life

The Naval Academy sits on 338 acres along the Severn River, just 30 miles from Washington, DC and Baltimore. With housing capacity for 4,667 students and total enrollment of 4,465, virtually every midshipman lives in Bancroft Hall, one of the world's largest dormitories. The humid subtropical climate means hot summers and mild winters, though you'll need both dress uniforms and workout gear year-round.

Daily life revolves around military structure and academic rigor. With a 96.14% retention rate, students adapt to the demanding routine of formations, inspections, and mandatory study periods. The 8:1 student-faculty ratio ensures close mentorship as midshipmen balance engineering coursework with naval science. Historic Annapolis provides weekend liberty opportunities when permitted, though upperclassmen enjoy more freedom than plebes. The Army-Navy football rivalry consumes campus each fall, while traditional events like Herndon Monument climb mark the end of plebe year. Social life centers around company bonds and shared military training rather than typical college parties.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 4,667 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1845

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 29°–42°F
July Avg: 71°–85°F
Annual Precipitation: 0.0"
Annual Snowfall: 0.0"

Student Demographics

The Naval Academy draws ambitious students from across the country, with only 5% coming from Maryland. The 70% male student body reflects the military's traditionally male demographics, though women increasingly pursue naval careers here. Students need congressional nominations to attend, creating a competitive pool that spans all backgrounds. The academy attracts future leaders who commit to five years of military service after graduation. These midshipmen typically combine strong academic performance with leadership potential. The diverse student body mirrors America's demographics, preparing officers who will serve in an increasingly global Navy and Marine Corps.

Men: 70.4%
Women: 29.6%
White: 57.9%
Black: 6.3%
Hispanic: 14.4%
Asian: 9.7%
In-State Students: 5.3%

Location

The Naval Academy sits in Annapolis, Maryland, just 30 miles east of Washington D.C. and 30 miles south of Baltimore. This historic colonial city serves as Maryland's capital and revolves around both state government and the military academy. Annapolis hugs the Chesapeake Bay, where midshipmen learn seamanship on actual waters. The city's cobblestone streets and 18th-century architecture create an atmosphere steeped in American naval tradition. Only 5.34% of students come from Maryland, drawing the rest from across the nation. The waterfront setting provides constant reminders of the maritime mission that defines academy life. Students considering colleges in Maryland may also compare the Naval Academy with similar schools in the region.

Address: Annapolis, Maryland 21402-1300

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at United States Naval Academy?

The United States Naval Academy accepts only 10.75% of applicants, making it one of the most selective institutions in America. This military academy seeks candidates who can handle both academic rigor and military training. The competitive admissions process requires congressional nomination along with exceptional academic credentials.

How much does United States Naval Academy cost?

Students at the Naval Academy attend completely free of charge in exchange for a commitment to serve as officers. The federal government covers all tuition, room, board, and medical expenses while students receive a monthly stipend. Graduates must serve a minimum of five years as commissioned officers in the Navy or Marine Corps.

What are class sizes like at United States Naval Academy?

The Naval Academy maintains an 8:1 student-faculty ratio with 4,465 midshipmen enrolled. This allows for intensive mentorship and personalized attention in both academic and military training. The small class environment supports the academy's mission of developing future military leaders through close faculty guidance.

What percentage of students graduate from United States Naval Academy?

The Naval Academy achieves a 90.73% four-year graduation rate, reflecting the disciplined environment and strong support systems. With a 96.14% retention rate, nearly all students who start the program complete their military and academic training. These high completion rates demonstrate the academy's effectiveness in preparing committed naval officers.

Where do United States Naval Academy students come from?

Only 5.34% of Naval Academy students are from Maryland, as the academy draws nationally through congressional appointments. The student body is 70.41% male and 29.59% female, reflecting military service demographics. This geographic diversity creates a truly national officer corps representing all states and territories.

Is United States Naval Academy only for future Navy officers?

The Naval Academy trains officers for both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps through its rigorous four-year program. Founded in 1845, the academy has produced leaders like President Jimmy Carter and astronaut Alan Shepard. The institution's Latin motto "Ex Scientia Tridens" means "From Knowledge, Sea Power," emphasizing its maritime military focus.