United States Coast Guard Academy

The United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), nestled in New London, Connecticut, stands as the premier U.S. service academy dedicated solely to preparing the next generation of Coast Guard officers. Here, cadets embark on an extraordinary journey, earning a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission as an Ensign in the U.S. Coast Guard—all without incurring any tuition debt. In exchange for this invaluable education, valued at over $500,000, graduates commit to a minimum of five years of active-duty service, launching fulfilling careers protecting our nation's waterways.

Life at USCGA is defined by a holistic and challenging program across nine major fields of study. Cadets are evaluated not just on academics, but also on military bearing, physical fitness, character, and leadership. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are not only intellectually capable but also embody the integrity and discipline essential for military service. Adhering to the powerful "Honor Concept," "Who lives here reveres honor, honors duty," and guided by its Latin motto, "Scientiæ Cedit Mare" (The sea yields to knowledge), the Academy fosters an environment of excellence and commitment.

With roots tracing back to the 1876 "School of Instruction of the Revenue Cutter Service," the Academy has a rich history of adapting and growing. It evolved into the Coast Guard Academy in 1915 and later moved to its impressive New London campus in 1932. Today, cadets continue to train aboard the historic USCGC Eagle, a majestic barque received as a war reparation, which serves as a vital hands-on learning platform, symbolizing the enduring connection between knowledge and the sea.