Members of Congress should consider the same factors as the United States Military Academy (USMA) in their selection process for nominations. The USMA Admissions process uses the Whole Candidate Concept which seeks well-rounded candidates who demonstrate excellent academic ability, leadership potential, and overall fitness.

Each member of Congress has the ability to track their respective district through the USMA online portal for Congressional Nominations. The objective for congressional offices should be to submit a full slate (ten per vacancy) of eligible nominees to the academy’s admissions office NLT 31 Jan each year.

The West Point Admissions Congressional Liaison Office maintains liaison with members of Congress regarding cadet vacancies, candidate nomination, eligibility of nominees, appointment of candidates, and separation of individuals from the Corps of Cadets. The liaison office informs congressional sponsors of the nominees’ selection two days prior to the announcement by the admissions office. Each August, the office also informs members of Congress of the number of cadet vacancies they will have for the next entering class.