What happens during a Naval Academy official candidate visit?

I'm considering applying to the Naval Academy and heard about official candidate visits. What do they involve? Are there specific activities or meetings? I'm trying to figure out what to expect and how to prepare for it.

An official candidate visit (OCV) to the United States Naval Academy is a great opportunity for you to get a sense of the environment, the rigor, and the communal spirit at the Academy. It is designed for candidates who are seriously considering attending if admitted.

The visit typically spans a couple of days. You'll get the chance to experience academic, athletic, and extracurricular aspects of life at the Academy.

Your visit might start with check-in and a brief orientation about the Naval Academy's mission and programs. Afterwards, you'll be assigned to a midshipman host, a student at the Academy who will serve as your guide during your stay. You'll follow your host to classes, meals, and other activities, giving you an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of a midshipman.

You'll attend several classes to get a good view of the Academy's academic rigor. Subjects could range across courses like calculus, physics, or English literature. This is a good opportunity to determine if the academic pace and style fit your preferences.

There might also be a tour of the grounds, the various athletic facilities, and Bancroft Hall, the largest dormitory complex in the country, where all midshipmen reside. You'll likely eat meals in King Hall with the whole brigade, witnessing the midshipmen body's camaraderie and discipline.

There is generally an interview process woven into the OCV as well, which is a critical part of the admissions review. This interview is typically conducted by an admissions officer and provides you with an opportunity to articulate your interest in the Academy and how you'd fit in their institution.

In terms of preparation, I'd recommend brushing up on basic knowledge about the Naval Academy, preparing some thoughtful questions to ask during your visit, and bolstering your interview skills. Academically, continue to work hard in your classes, as doing well in challenging courses is a good indicator of your potential success at the Academy.

Remember to be curious, respectful, and engaged during your visit. This is an opportunity for you to evaluate if the Naval Academy aligns with your aspirations.