What are the US Naval Academy Health Requirements?

I'm considering applying to the US Naval Academy and I'm curious about their health requirements. What medical or physical standards do applicants need to meet? Are there common health issues that might disqualify a candidate?

Applicants to the U.S. Naval Academy must meet strict physical and medical requirements as part of a rigorous physical readiness program. To ensure graduates will be able to handle the physical demands of military service, the academy employs standards created by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB).

First, applicants undergo a thorough medical examination, which evaluates their general health, vision, hearing, and dental health. Typically, these appointments are scheduled at local clinics for applicants. You'll be evaluated for any history of medical conditions that could interfere with military service. For instance, common disqualifying conditions might include chronic asthma past the age of 13, severe injuries to limbs resulting in limited mobility, significant vision problems (without corrective surgery), and certain heart conditions.

In terms of physical fitness, candidates must pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), which measures strength, agility, speed, and endurance. The CFA includes six different physical challenges: the basketball throw, pull-ups or arm hang, shuttle run, modified sit-ups or crunches, push-ups, and a one-mile run. An applicant's performance in these areas provides insight into their physical preparedness for the academy.

Maintaining physical readiness also continues once you're admitted to the academy. Midshipmen must regularly participate in physical training and pass a Physical Readiness Test (PRT) every semester in order to maintain their physical conditioning.

It's important to remember that waivers are sometimes available if an applicant fails to meet a specific standard but demonstrates a high level of overall capability and potential. This is determined case by case and typically requires thorough evaluation and paperwork.

To get more specific information on these requirements, I recommend reaching out to the Naval Academy's Admissions Office. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.