Application, Requirements and Procedures

Application Requirements

Candidates for admission to Great Lakes Maritime must meet the following basic requirements:

• Be a citizen of the United States. (Certain non-U.S. applicants with a green card may be accepted for specialized programs not leading to licensing under USCG Regulations).
• Meet USCG requirements to qualify for an original license as a U.S. Merchant Marine Officer, including physical, vision, and moral character standards established by federal law and/or regulations.The Merchant Marine Personnel Physical Examination Report is included in the Great Lakes Maritime Application.
• Be 17 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit.
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).

Application Procedures

• A complete application includes the following:
  • Great Lakes Maritime Academy Application
  • Northwestern Michigan College general application (submit to maritime admissions) with $20.00 application fee (non-refundable, checks made payable to the Academy).
  • Two official copies of high school or college transcripts from all schools attended.
  • Merchant Marine Personnel Physical Examination Report
  • Two Letters of Recommendation.
  • An undeleted DD-214, Armed Services Discharge Report, for applicants with military service.
    • Great Lakes Maritime Application -- 174 KB

Admissions Process

1. Complete and submit all application materials.
2. Applications are reviewed by the Great Lakes Maritime Admissions Officer. Acceptance is competitive. Admission decisions will be made without regard to age, sex, marital status, national origin, or ethnic/racial background.
3. Applicants are notified in writing of acceptance or non-acceptance.
4. Upon notification of acceptance, prospective Maritime Cadets are required to submit a $500 (non-refundable) deposit to reserve a position in the incoming class. This $500 amount will be applied toward a cadet's initial order of uniforms.