What are the prerequisites for applying to the Naval Academy?

I'm considering applying to the Naval Academy and would love to know what prerequisites I need to meet. Do they have specific academic or physical requirements? Any insight into how to best prepare for the application process?

Admission to the United States Naval Academy (USNA) is highly competitive and demanding. Please note that the prerequisites and steps mentioned are not exhaustive, but rather, the most common ones.

The basic eligibility includes being between 17 and 23 years old, a U.S. citizen, unmarried, and without children. Regarding academic requirements, the USNA requires good scholastic achievement, especially in the areas of mathematics and physical sciences.

As the Naval Academy cultivates leaders ready for physical and mental exertion, you will need to pass a Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) which includes basketball throw, pull-ups/flexed arm hang, shuttle run, sit-ups, push-ups, and a one-mile run.

For academics, it's often advisable to focus on taking rigorous courses, and doing well in them. While there is no required HS curriculum, competitive applicants usually have taken multiple years of English, math (including calculus if possible), chemistry, physics, and a foreign language.

In addition to academics and physical fitness, you need to be nominated, typically by your Congressional representative, Senator, or the Vice President of the U.S. A small number of other nominations, including Presidential nominations for children of military service members, are also available.

Involvement in extracurricular activities, athletics, and community service also plays a role in the evaluation process. Demonstrating leadership roles in these areas can lessen the impact of slightly lower test scores or GPAs.

Part of the application process includes sitting for an interview conducted by a member of the Naval Academy's Blue and Gold Officer program. A good candidate is not just academically well-rounded, but also prepared to exhibit strong leadership and teamwork skills.

Finally, you'll need to submit medical qualifications. While specific medical conditions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, you generally need to be in good health with no conditions that would restrict your ability to perform military duties.

Remember, though, that every year is different, and the application is a holistic one. It's good to reach out to your regional admissions counselor at the Naval Academy, your local Blue and Gold Officer, or the admissions office itself for the most accurate and up-to-date information.