Certification of Merit-Based Military Service Academy Admissions

A new directive from the Secretary of Defense mandates that admissions to the U.S. Military Service Academies be based solely on merit, with no consideration of race, ethnicity, or sex. This move is intended to preserve the excellence, readiness, and combat effectiveness of the Armed Forces by ensuring only the most qualified candidates are appointed. The policy includes merit-based ranking systems and expectations that the highest-ranked individuals in each nomination category receive appointments. Compliance will be certified following the 2026 admissions cycle.