What's the process of enrolling at US Army West Point?

I'm looking into applying to the US Army West Point, and I want to know more about the application process and requirements. What should I be prepared for?

The application process to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is quite rigorous and involves several steps. Starting the process early is a good strategy. Below I've outlined the main stages:

1. Candidate File Creation: You start by opening a Candidate File in the spring of your junior year in high school. You'll need to fill in data such as your GPA, class rank, SAT/ACT scores, and proof of U.S. citizenship. West Point looks for candidates who are strong academically, physically, and in terms of leadership.

2. Fitness Test: Your physical fitness will be evaluated by the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA). The CFA includes basketball throws, pull-ups or flexed arm hang, shuttle runs, sit-ups, push-ups, and 1-mile runs. It's crucial to train for this test in addition to maintaining your overall health and fitness.

3. Medical Evaluation: Medical fitness is evaluated via a detailed examination through the Department of Defense Medical Evaluation Review Board.

4. Nomination: Most importantly, you need a nomination, usually from a U.S. Representative or Senator. Begin the nomination process early by contacting your local representative's office. There are also four other sources of nomination, but the Congressional one is the most common.

5. Supporting Materials: Along with the above, West Point will require typical college application materials such as transcripts, a high school profile, and ACT/SAT scores. Depending upon the instructions you'll also need to write essays and get letters of recommendation.

6. Interview: After initial screening, you might be offered an interview.

Remember, admission to West Point is highly competitive. Along with academics, they primarily look for leadership potential and physical fitness. To increase your chances, consider taking on leadership roles in high school, like class president, captain of a sports team, or leading community service initiatives. JV or Varsity sports will also help your application.

After being accepted and enrolling, all West Point students join the U.S. Army for a minimum of five years after graduation. Thus, this decision should be made with a full understanding of the commitment it entails. It's not just a college application; it's a commitment to serve the nation. Best of luck with your application!