U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Program Funding
Annual program obligations reported to SAM.gov.
Funded Projects
Examples of what this program has supported.
Program Objective
The USMMA is a Federal Service Academy and an accredited institution of higher education to provide instruction to individuals to prepare them for service in the Merchant Marine of the Unites States. USMMA provides undergraduate educational programs leading to a Bachelor of Science degree and a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Mariner Credential with an officer endorsement.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Unrestricted by Individual Type
High school graduates who are U.S. citizens and international students in accordance with legislation.
How to Apply
Award Procedure
In addition to a congressional nomination, candidates must have satisfactorily completed their high school education at an accredited secondary school or its equivalent. They must have earned at least 15 units of credit:
Three units in English
Three units in mathematics (from algebra, geometry and trigonometry);
One unit in physics or chemistry with a laboratory.
Admittance is competitive and merit based.
Program details & compliance
Description
USMMA provides undergraduate educational programs for men and women (Midshipmen) to become shipboard officers and leaders in the maritime transportation field. Midshipmen, nominated by members of Congress, and competitively selected to the Academy receive a Bachelor of Science degree and a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Mariner Credential with an officer endorsement, and an active duty or reserve commission as an officer in the U.S. Armed Forces or uniformed services. (NOAA or the Public Health Service Corps). Attendance at USMMA is without charge for tuition room or board. In exchange for a tuition-free education, Academy graduates incur an obligation to serve the Nation: 1) serving for five years as a Merchant Marine officer, or on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or uniformed services; 2) maintaining a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) license credential for six years; and 3) serving for eight years as a commissioned officer in a reserve unit of the U. S. Armed Services.
Mission Categories
Primary: Maritime
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
This program is a federally operated maritime academy providing education, training, subsistence, books, quarters, uniforms, medical care, and program travel to its U.S. citizen students. Appropriations are restricted to the above and the operation and maintenance of the school. International students may attend, at the expense of their sponsoring nation.
Required Documentation
Midshipman are nominated by members of Congress and competitively selected for admittance to the Academy.
Reporting & Compliance
Formula
This program has no statutory formula.