Service Academy Apps Go Paperless

Applying for nomination to West Point just got a little faster and more environmentally friendly. Vice President Joe Biden on Monday announced the launch of an online application for several U.S. service academies.

The vice president can nominate individuals to the U.S. Military, Naval and Air Force academies without the geographic restrictions members of Congress face. According to the White House, he can have up to five nominees at each academy at any given time.Those interested in the Merchant Marine and Coast Guard academies are not eligible for these nominations.

The new system may streamline the process for both applicants and evaluators, but it won't make getting in any easier. The VP only has one or two openings per academy each year.