<p>I have come across 3 or 4 candidates who received a VP nomination. In all cases it was in conjunction with an appointment and because they did not receive a nomination from any of their MOC’s.<br>
Sometimes a MOC will not give a recruited athlete a nomination - esp if the area is very competitive. In other cases, a candidate applied to USMA, USNA and USAFA and received an LOA to all three - their senator and/or congressman will not offer multiple nominations and the candidate must rank, therefore will not get a nomination to the three academies.</p>
<p>In October when the VP nomination is due, you just have no idea yet how your nomination/appointment quest will turn out - applying for the VP allows the Academy to appoint you if you are in need of a nomination.</p>
<p>The Presidential nomination is an “entitlement” based on a parent’s military service. It is not competitive.</p>