Question abt US citizen living in Canada

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candidate2021

5-Year Member
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Apr 6, 2014
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Hello all,

I'm a freshman in high school and ever since the 2nd grade it has been my dream to attend a service academy and serve my country. When I was the 5th grade, I moved away to Canada. However, I was born in California and lived there until I moved away. I'm currently in high school as I said earlier and will be attending a high school in Canada by the time I apply to any of the service academies. Although I am living in Canada, my dad owns a house in California (District 15). Am I still eligible to apply for a nomination from the CA-15 rep? Also, because I live in Canada there isn't prestigious ECA's like NHS or JROTC. What would you recommend for me to do to stand out? All insight/tips would be greatly appreciated :smile:
 
The first question is whether you are a US citizen (assume you at least have dual citizenship b/c you were born in the US). Assuming you are, the second question is whether either custodial parent is a "legal resident" of the US. Owning property is not necessarily enough. Does your father pay taxes in the US? Does he vote in the US? Does he do anything to establish residency?

If not, I suggest you contact USNA because I believe (am not certain), you would not qualify for an MOC nom. However, you would qualify for a VP nom and that is often what this nom is used for -- candidates who can't for various reasons obtain a nom from any other source.

As for what you should do -- honestly, the same things that a US-based candidate would do. Many successful applicants do not attend outstanding high schools. They make the very best of what they have at their disposal. You can do the same.:thumb:
 
Thanks a lot! Your answer was pretty helpful. As far as the MOC nom, my dad does pay US taxes. Also, I am a US citizen, but not a Canadian citizen. As of right now I am planning to do the Canadian equivalent of eagle scouts as well as talking to my principal about starting an NHS chapter at my school. All in all, thank you very much for your answer, it was nice to know :smile:
 
I'm thinking, since you are a Freshman, it gives you and your parents time to look into what makes one a legal resident of a congressional district. It may be easier than you think to establish residency in the circumstances you describe.
Your interest this far ahead gives you time to plan your next few school years and work on the things that make candidates competitive. You may need to do a lot more of this on your own, as it is not likely your guidance office will have much information on the US academies.
Finally, do not feel your Canadian residency is a limiting thing. Indeed, I would think your experiences living out of the country, etc., will make for a great application essay and add unique 'color' to your application.
 
JMS,

Thank you for your insight. It may seem simple to you but I found that very helpful.
 
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