What are the requirements for the Naval Academy Preparatory School?

I'm considering applying to the Naval Academy Preparatory School and want to know what their admission requirements are. Are there specific test scores, transcripts, or recommendations needed? Also, how competitive is the application process?

To apply for the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), you would initially have to apply for the U.S. Naval Academy itself, as NAPS primarily serves to prepare candidates who are academically qualified but need additional preparation to join the academy. If the Naval Academy Admissions Board believes you to be a strong candidate who could benefit from NAPS, they will offer you a spot directly.

Admissions requirements for the U.S. Naval Academy, and therefore NAPS, include:

1. Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen and be at least 17 but not past your 23rd birthday by July 1 of the year you will enter the academy.

2. Physical Fitness: You must pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), which is a physical ability test.

3. Medical Qualifications: A medical exam is part of the application process to ensure you meet the physical standards of the Navy.

4. Scholastic Aptitude: You should have a strong high school academic record. While test scores (SAT/ACT) were traditionally part of the application, many schools have moved to a test-optional policy, and the latest requirements should be confirmed on the academy's website.

5. Personal Qualifications: Demonstrated leadership potential, outstanding character, and a desire to serve your country are essentials.

6. Recommendations: An interview and recommendation from a Blue and Gold Officer assigned to your area are part of the process.

In terms of competitiveness, the academy is selective, with an acceptance rate around 8-9%. NAPS itself does not release acceptance rates, but given that NAPS is a feeder program to the Naval Academy, it's safe to assume that it's also quite competitive.

Understand that attending NAPS isn't the only way into the Naval Academy. Other viable paths include attending college (potentially with Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps), enlisting in the Navy or Marines, or attending other Service Academies. Pursuing one of these paths and reapplying also demonstrates perseverance, a quality the Naval Academy and Navy highly values.

As you go through this application process, make sure to regularly confirm any requirements or deadlines directly from the Naval Academy's website or your admissions officer, as this information may change from year to year.