On Wednesday, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet became the latest member of Colorado’s congressional delegation to open the nomination period for four of the U.S. military service academies.

“One of my highest honors as a senator is the opportunity to nominate young Coloradans who exhibit remarkable dedication to their community and country,” Bennet said. “Attending these institutions is a commitment to build upon the legacy of service, character and integrity of those who came before us, and I invite all interested students to apply.”

The academies in Colorado Springs, West Point, Annapolis, and Kings Point, N.Y., allow nominated cadets and midshipmen to earn bachelor’s degrees and become commissioned officers in the armed forces. The Coast Guard Academy does not employ a congressional nominating system for admission.

MilitaryBenefits.info advises prospective service members to apply in their junior year of high school. Each U.S. senator, U.S. representative and the vice president can nominate applicants. The vice president, however, cannot nominate to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The president can also nominate only those who had an enlisted parent. Receiving a nomination does not automatically result in admission.

For application instructions, visit the websites of:

Vice President Mike Pence

U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet

U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette

U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse

U.S. Rep. Scott Tipton

U.S. Rep. Ken Buck

U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow

U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter