Understanding Your Options
Private Boarding Schools
Three private military prep schools serve New York students. New York Military Academy in Cornwall-on-Hudson offers boarding and day options for grades 6-12 with Army JROTC. La Salle Institute in Troy is a Catholic coed day school for grades 6-12 with Army JROTC traditions. Christian Brothers Academy in Albany is a Catholic boys day school for grades 6-12 with Army JROTC. None offer free options.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
Federal service academies accept students from all states—congressional nominations required for West Point. SUNY Maritime serves all students with in-state rates for NY residents. Private schools accept students nationally; NYMA offers boarding for out-of-state students.
Home of West Point
New York holds a unique place in American military education. The United States Military Academy at West Point has trained Army officers since 1802, producing generals, presidents, and leaders across every field. The state also hosts the Merchant Marine Academy—one of five federal service academies.
Federal Service Academies
Two of America's five federal service academies are in New York:
United States Military Academy (West Point) - Founded in 1802, West Point is the nation's oldest service academy and the premier commissioning source for Army officers. Located on the Hudson River (about an hour north of New York City), the Academy offers a free four-year undergraduate education in exchange for a service commitment. Admission is highly competitive (12% acceptance rate) and requires a congressional nomination.
United States Merchant Marine Academy - Located in Kings Point on Long Island (about 20 miles east of Manhattan), USMMA trains officers for the U.S. Merchant Marine and all military branches. Founded in 1943, it offers engineering and maritime degrees. Graduates can serve in the Navy, Coast Guard, or commercial shipping with service obligations.
State Maritime Academy
SUNY Maritime College - The oldest maritime academy in America (founded 1874), located at Fort Schuyler in the Bronx. Part of the SUNY system, it offers affordable maritime, engineering, and business degrees with optional participation in the Regiment of Cadets. An accessible path to maritime careers for New York residents.
Private Military Prep Schools
Three private schools offer military structure at the high school level:
New York Military Academy - Located in Cornwall-on-Hudson (about an hour north of New York City, near West Point), NYMA is a coed boarding and day school for grades 6-12. Founded in 1889, it offers Army JROTC and small class sizes (5:1 ratio). Notable alumni include several presidents.
La Salle Institute - A Catholic coed day school in Troy (near Albany, about 2.5 hours north of New York City) serving grades 6-12. Founded in 1850 in the Lasallian tradition, it combines faith-based education with Army JROTC and strong academics. Day only, no boarding.
Christian Brothers Academy - A Catholic boys day school in Albany serving grades 6-12. Founded in 1859 in the Lasallian tradition, CBA combines rigorous academics with Army JROTC and Catholic values. Day only, no boarding. Tuition approximately $18,500/year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is West Point?
West Point is the United States Military Academy, located in West Point, NY. Founded in 1802, it's a federal service academy that trains officers for the U.S. Army. Admission is free with a service commitment, but highly competitive (12% acceptance rate) and requires a congressional nomination.
What is the Merchant Marine Academy?
The United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point is a federal service academy that trains officers for the Merchant Marine and military. Graduates can serve in the Navy, Coast Guard, or other branches. Tuition is free with service requirements.
Are there any free military schools in New York?
The federal academies (West Point, Merchant Marine Academy) are free with service commitments. SUNY Maritime offers affordable public university rates. There are no free K-12 military schools in New York.
Can I use 529 funds for military school in New York?
No. New York does not allow 529 plan funds for K-12 private school tuition. Using 529 funds for K-12 requires recapture of NY state tax benefits, making it financially disadvantageous.
What is SUNY Maritime?
SUNY Maritime College in the Bronx is the oldest maritime academy in the United States (founded 1874). It's part of the State University of New York system and offers degrees in engineering, business, and maritime fields. Students can participate in the Regiment of Cadets.