What body approves Presidential appointments?

Presidential nominations to many important positions, including federal judges, top Cabinet positions, military officer commissions, Ambassadorships to foreign countries, and members of many boards and agencies must be confirmed (approved) by the United States Senate. These nominations become "appointments" when confirmed. The President also selects a large number of people to hold jobs in his administration who are not required by law to be confirmed. These are called "appointments" from the time of the annoucement.