In accordance with 5 USC 552a(e)(3), the following information is provided to you when supplying personal information to the Maritime Administration.

Authority which authorized the solicitation of the information: 46 U.S. Code § 51302 - Nomination and competitive appointment of cadets; 46 U.S. Code § 51303 - Non-competitive appointments; 46 U.S. Code § 51306 - Cadet commitment agreements
Principal purpose(s) for which information is intended to be used: The information is used to evaluate each applicant for an appointment to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
The routine uses which may be made of the information: Information will be used by the United States Merchant Marine Academy as applicant background information to determine eligibility for appointment during the selection process, and to contact the applicant. The social security number is a basic identifier. Information may be shared within the Department of Transportation and Department of Defense in conjunction with functions required for admission to the Academy.
Whether or not disclosure of such information is mandatory or voluntary (required by law or optional) and the effects on the individual, 'if any, of not providing all or any part of the requested information: Disclosure of the information is voluntary, however, failure to provide the requested information may result in a delay or inability to process the application to the Academy