What are the medical disqualifications for the Naval Academy?

I'm considering applying to the Naval Academy, but I'm worried about the medical requirements. Can anyone tell me what might disqualify a candidate medically? I'd appreciate any info on this as I want to make sure I'm eligible.

Armed services academies like the Naval Academy require all aspiring candidates to be physically fit and free of medical conditions that may impede their ability to serve efficiently once commissioned. Each academy follows the medical standards laid out by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB). Specific medical disqualifications vary considerably, depending on the individual’s circumstances, and each situation is reviewed uniquely. It's impossible to list all potential disqualifying conditions since there are so many possibilities, but here are some categories and examples of potentially disqualifying conditions:

1. Eye/Vision: Conditions like uncorrectable vision worse than 20/400, colorblindness, or eye diseases like glaucoma could be disqualifying.

2. Hearing: Significant hearing loss can be disqualifying.

3. Cardiovascular: Conditions like heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or certain cardiovascular abnormalities could be disqualifying.

4. Respiratory: Conditions such as asthma or other chronic lung diseases may be disqualifying, especially if they require ongoing medication.

5. Neurological: Certain neurological conditions like epilepsy are usually disqualifying.

6. Mental Health: Conditions like depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders could potentially be disqualifying, especially if they require ongoing medication or therapy.

7. Musculoskeletal: Conditions that significantly limit mobility or range of movement may be disqualifying.

8. Gastrointestinal: Chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis could be disqualifying.

This list is not exhaustive, and other medical conditions might also be disqualifying.

Remember that certain disqualifications can be waived, but waivers are not guaranteed and are considered on a case-by-case basis. The Naval Academy's Admissions Board will not consider candidates for a medical waiver until after they have been deemed academically qualified. So, if you're interested in applying to the Naval Academy, go ahead with your plans. You will undergo a medical examination as part of your application process, and any potential medical issues will be discerned at that time. If there's a need for a waiver, the Academy will consider it then. Good luck with your application!