High School Students Preparing for West Point Academy?

I'm a high school junior considering West Point Academy. What classes or extracurriculars should I focus on to enhance my application? Any tips from current cadets or alumni would be super helpful!

Preparing for West Point is about building a strong scholastic, physical, and leadership profile.

Academically, take challenging courses, pushing yourself to excel in science, technology, English, and mathematics. These subjects are core to West Point's curriculum, so excellent grades in them will show you're academically prepared. Additionally, performing well on standardized tests is important — the mean SAT score for accepted candidates is typically around 1250-1300, and keep in mind that while many schools are currently test-optional, West Point requires all applicants to submit an SAT or ACT score.

Now for extracurriculars. Given the military focus of West Point, participating in your school's Jr. ROTC can be beneficial; if this is not available, look into other leadership-oriented clubs or initiatives. Remember, colleges judge extracurriculars using the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars. Leadership roles, such as being class president or a sports team captain, typically fall into Tier 2 or Tier 3 and can enhance your application. Having a "spike" — an area where you've focused and achieved significantly — can also help distinguish you from other applicants.

For more information about extracurricular tiers and how to categorize your own involvements, I'd check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/breaking-down-the-4-tiers-of-extracurricular-activities

Physically, you should maintain a high level of fitness. West Point requires applicants to undergo a Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) that includes a variety of physical tests, such as push-ups, pull-ups, and a 1-mile run. Regular exercise and balanced nutrition will help condition your body for this rigorous assessment.

Lastly, consider applying to West Point's Summer Leaders Experience (SLE). This week-long immersion program gives high school juniors a taste of life at West Point. It's competitive but a great way to demonstrate your commitment and interest while gaining a deeper understanding of the Academy.

Keep in mind that a nomination (usually from a Member of Congress) is required for admission. Building a relationship with your local representatives could be beneficial, as this step shows interest and initiative beyond the application itself.

Best of luck on your journey towards West Point!