Can anyone explain the admissions process for the United States Naval Academy?

I'm trying to understand the admissions process for the United States Naval Academy. It seems pretty different from regular college applications. What steps do I need to be aware of as a high school junior?

Applying to US military academies such as the United States Naval Academy (USNA) certainly involves some steps that aren't common in regular college applications. Here's a brief overview of the application process:

1. Candidate Status: The process starts by opening a Candidate File. You will first need to fill out a preliminary application on the USNA’s website. Once this is approved and you are in your junior year of high school, you will be designated as an “official candidate.”

2. Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA): All candidates are required to complete the CFA, a test which evaluates a candidate’s physical strength and endurance. You need to pass in order to be considered for entry.

3. Medical Exam: The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB) schedules and reviews medical examinations for each candidate. A candidate must meet DoDMERB medical qualifications to gain admission into the USNA.

4. Nominations: Unlike standard university applications, a nomination is required for admission to the USNA. These are typically sourced from a U.S. representative, senator, or the Vice President of the U.S. Other nominations are available as well (for example, for children of Medal of Honor recipients).

5. Academic Record: The USNA will review your grades and the rigor of your course load, similar to other colleges. They'll also look at your rank in class, if available.

6. Standardized Test Scores: While many civilian institutions have adopted test-optional policies recently, the USNA still requires either SAT or ACT scores.

7. Letters of Recommendation & Writing Samples: You'll be asked to submit teacher recommendations & writing samples just like a regular college application. Be sure to choose recommenders who can best speak to your qualities that align with the Naval Academy's mission and culture.

8. Interview: A qualifying candidate will have an interview with a Blue and Gold Officer, a volunteer representative of the Naval Academy.

The process can be daunting, but it's designed to ensure that candidates are highly qualified and well-suited to the challenges they'll face as midshipmen. It's also suggested to start early and review each step thoroughly before proceeding. Good luck!