Managing Asthma and Applying to the Coast Guard Academy

I've got mild asthma and I'm thinking about applying to the Coast Guard Academy. Does anyone know if having asthma could affect my chances of getting in or succeeding there? Any advice from current or past cadets would be appreciated!

Many applicants and students at service academies like the Coast Guard Academy have had similar concerns about how their health conditions might affect their eligibility or success, so you're not alone in this. Generally, all service academies, including the Coast Guard Academy, do have strict medical standards related to various health conditions including asthma, primarily to ensure that the cadets can handle the physical demands of service.

For asthma specifically, according to the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), individuals who have had asthma symptoms or have been treated for asthma beyond their 13th birthday may be disqualified. However, this doesn't mean that you won't be able to join the Coast Guard Academy. If you're diagnosed with asthma, the board will look at the severity, frequency, and recentness of your asthma attacks.

Regarding your success at the academy, it's possible to manage asthma and still excel in a demanding physical environment. This would involve working closely with health professionals to monitor and manage your symptoms effectively. They can help you understand your triggers and provide guidance on medication, exercises, or other strategies to keep your asthma under control.

Remember that encouraging open discussions about your asthma with the Coast Guard Academy as early as possible can alleviate misunderstandings and ensure that the necessary accommodations are acknowledged and provided. Make sure to include all relevant medical documentation during the application process. Best of luck!