What are the admission criteria for the Naval Academy?

I'm a junior considering applying to the Naval Academy and I'm trying to understand the admission criteria. What are the key things they look for in applicants, and how can I strengthen my application?

The United States Naval Academy is a service academy with a unique set of admissions requirements, reflecting its mission to "develop Midshipmen morally, mentally and physically." Be aware that a key part of the application process is receiving a nomination, typically from a U.S. Senator or Representative, though there are other sources as well.

Board scores are considered, and though there's no absolute cut-off, a competitive SAT score (for Math and Verbal combined) is in the neighborhood of 1200 to 1400, and for the ACT, it's around 26.

Excelling in school is highly important, so maintain a strong GPA and challenge yourself with difficult classes to demonstrate your academic abilities. The Naval Academy generally looks for students in the top 20% of their high school class.

Bear in mind physical fitness also plays a role in admissions. You'll take the Candidate Fitness Assessment, which tests strength, speed, endurance, and agility. Thus, keeping yourself in good physical condition will be beneficial.

Leadership is another characteristic the academy values. They want applicants who have demonstrated leadership potential, so consider taking leadership roles in clubs, sports teams, or other organizations.

Moreover, make sure to showcase your commitment to service. Naval Academy students have a commitment to serve in the Navy or Marine Corps after graduation, so evidence of a dedication to service can strengthen your application. This could include community service activities, membership in organizations such as JROTC, or even personal essays talking about your commitment to serving others.

You can also strengthen your application by participating in the Naval Academy's Summer Seminar. This program gives potential applicants an opportunity to experience academy life and it can make you a more competitive candidate.

One additional factor to consider is medical requirements. Certain physical, dental, and mental criteria must be met; some conditions may be qualified on a conditional basis or might be disqualifying.

For the most personalized advice, it's helpful to connect with your local Naval Academy admission officer—they can provide individual guidance on strengthening your application.