How to Best Prepare for Admission to the US Naval Academy

I'm a junior with my sights set on the US Naval Academy, and I'm curious about how to strengthen my application. What extracurriculars, courses, or other experiences will stand out to admissions?

Preparing for admission to the US Naval Academy requires a balance of academic excellence, physical fitness, leadership, and character.

In terms of your academics, focus on maintaining a strong GPA in rigorous courses, especially in math and science. The Naval Academy values strong STEM skills, so consider AP courses in mathematics, physics, and engineering if available. Your standardized test scores also carry significant weight. Aim for high scores on the SAT or ACT. Remember, as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, both Dartmouth College (Dartmouth) and Purdue University (Purdue) require all applicants to submit an SAT or ACT score.

For extracurriculars, leadership is key. The 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars concept by CollegeVine can guide you on how to prioritize activities. For example, you may aim for Tier 1 and 2 activities that have a strong leadership or service component, like being Student Body President or leading a major community service project. Additionally, demonstrating interest or experience in military, maritime, or government-related activities gives your application an edge. This could include activities like JROTC, Civil Air Patrol, Sea Cadets, or Boy/Girl Scouts, to name a few.

An important part of the Naval Academy application is the physical fitness assessment. Begin preparing for this early by maintaining regular physical activity and practicing the specific exercises that will be tested: basketball throw, push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups (or flexed arm hang for females), shuttle run, and a one-mile run.

Lastly, you will also need to obtain a nomination, usually from a member of Congress, so start to familiarize yourself with this process and timeline. Start connecting with your local representative or senators' offices to understand their nomination processes.

Remember, while all these components are important, the Naval Academy is looking for commitment and dedication to service, so keep that in mind throughout your preparation.