The United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) is the smallest of the five US Armed Services Academies and is a four year accredited college program. The USCGA provides an environment renowned for academic excellence and for the development of leaders. At the Coast Guard Academy, students receive rigorous professional training that prepares them for meaningful Coast Guard careers. The Academy is designed to educate service-ready officers to serve with skill, commitment, and character. Graduates receive a Bachelor’s Degree and a Commission as an Ensign.
The Coast Guard Academy is highly selective, but is the only Armed Forces Academy that does not require a congressional nomination. Nominations are based solely on merit. Tuition for cadets is fully funded by the Coast Guard in exchange for an obligation of 5 years of active duty service upon graduation. The Academy is located in New London, Connecticut above the west bank of the Thames River.
All entering cadets must memorize the mission during their first few days of Swab Summer, the indoctrination period for new cadets.
The mission of the United States Coast Guard Academy is to graduate young men and women with sound bodies, stout hearts and alert minds, with a liking for the sea and its lore, and with that high sense of Honor, Loyalty and Obedience which goes with trained initiative and leadership; well-grounded in seamanship, the sciences and the amenities, and strong in the resolve to be worthy of the traditions of commissioned officers in the United States Coast Guard, in the service of their country and humanity.