Hey, I live in Pennsylvania and I am considering military colleges in the state. Can anyone give me some insight into these institutions? What's the application process like and what should I be prepared for?
There are several military colleges and academies in Pennsylvania, including the prestigious US Army War College and Valley Forge Military Academy and College.
The US Army War College in Carlisle offers graduate-level instruction to senior military officers and civilians. Qualifying for the US Army War College typically requires high-ranking status in the military or a similar civilian position, along with rigorous academic credentials.
On the other hand, Valley Forge Military Academy and College (VFMC), located in Wayne, is a boarding school that offers high school level as well as college-level education. VFMC follows the military model of developing the whole person, with focus not just on academics but also character development, leadership, and physical fitness.
For Valley Forge, the application process typically involves completing an online application, an admissions interview, and submission of academic documents like transcripts and standardized test score. Filling out the Healthcare History and Physical Examination Packet is also mandatory due to the military component of the education.
The admissions process is typically the same as so many other non-military institutions. But keep in mind, besides meeting all academic criteria, you must also meet requirements for physical fitness and, in some cases, citizenship status.
These institutions provide trainings in physical discipline and leadership as part of their curriculum. As hese are not typical colleges, their student life, policies will revolve around military values and discipline. You may have to adapt to more structured and regimented routines, with certain requirements for uniforms and conduct.
For the best insight into these and other military colleges in Pennsylvania, reach out to admissions departments, see if virtual campus tours or in-person visits are possible, and try to connect with current students or alumni. They might be able to offer you insights that go beyond academic requirements, such as what daily life and responsibilities actually look like at a military school.
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