What's the Process to Attend the US Naval Academy?

I'm considering applying to the US Naval Academy and was wondering what steps are involved. Do I need to go through a nomination process? Any advice from those who have gone through it would be really helpful!

Indeed, applying to the US Naval Academy involves a pretty distinctive and demanding process, as it's one of the five federal military service academies in the US. Here's a really broad outline of what you'd have to do:

1. Candidate Profile: You start with the Candidate Profile, which is like a pre-application that you can submit during your junior year of high school.

2. Application: Once you complete your Candidate Profile, and if you meet the initial qualifications, the Naval Academy will send you an official application. This application asks for the similar information you'd find on most college applications — your transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, extracurriculars, and so on. There's also a medical examination and a physical fitness assessment.

3. Candidate Fitness Assessment: The Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) is a test of physical endurance, divided into six parts: basketball throw, pull-ups or flexed-arm hang (women have the option), 2-minute shuttle run, sit-ups, push-ups, and a 1-mile run. Training in advance for these tests will set you up for success.

4. Medical Examination: Candidates must be examined medically to ensure they meet the physical standards of the Naval Academy. This is conducted by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB).

5. Nomination: You'll also need a nomination, most typically from a senator or congressional representative, though there are a few other sources as well (like the Vice President).

6. Interview: Following your nomination, you'll interview with a Blue and Gold Officer, who is a volunteer representative of USNA.

Improving your odds of acceptance often comes down to differentiating yourself from other applicants. Given that the Naval Academy is looking for leaders, it's often effective to emphasize experiences that demonstrate leadership potential.

Just remember that attending the US Naval Academy is a significant commitment, far beyond that of a typical university. You're committing to not just four years of study, but also a minimum of five years of service in the Navy or Marine Corps after graduation.

Securing a spot at USNA is a rigorous process, but for those serious about a military career, it is undoubtedly worthwhile. With lots of hard work, commitment, and the right approach, the endeavor is indeed achievable.