I have been tendered a full appointment to the academy as part of the Class of '21 and I am fully intending to attend the academy next year. I know there is no tuition, however, I see that the academy accepts scholarships. First of all, what would these scholarships go towards (books? uniforms? etc.)? Second of all, how would I apply these scholarships?
Also, I was wondering if following Swab Summer, would there be any off time before the start of the school year, or would it roll right into school?
Unfortunately I do not know the answers. However, there is an official service academy forum website. The forum is incredibly helpful and these are great questions that a lot of other people, myself included, would like to be answered. It can be found by searching “USCGA forum” into the browser. Hope it helps.
Cost
Tuition, room, and board at the Coast Guard Academy are paid for by the government.
Pay
All cadets receive pay totaling approximately $12,000 per year. Cadet pay is furnished by the government for uniforms, military equipment, academic supplies including textbooks, and personal expenses. These funds should cover all official expenses incurred over the four years and are directly deposited on a bi-weekly basis into a personal checking account managed by the cadet.
Obligation
Upon graduation from the Coast Guard Academy, there is a five-year commitment to serve as a commissioned Coast Guard officer. Approximately 80% of Academy graduates go to sea after graduation, although some go to marine safety offices, ashore operations, or flight training.