Wondering About the Air Force Academy Entrance Process

Hey folks! I've been eyeing the Air Force Academy for quite some time now. I'm a bit overwhelmed though and would appreciate if anyone could share what the entrance process is like. What sort of qualifications or experience do they look for?

The entrance process for the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is rather unique and multifaceted as compared to other colleges. The application process consists of several parts including:

1. Pre-Candidacy Phase: The applicants must first pass a pre-candidacy evaluation phase, where they fill out a Pre-candidate Questionnaire, generally after March 1st of their junior year in high school.

2. Candidate Phase: Those who pass the pre-candidacy phase become official candidates, which opens the rest of the process. This involves submitting various online forms including a writing sample, an activities record, and providing three Teacher Evaluations which focus on the student's academic performance, character and leadership traits.

3. Standardized Test Scores: The USAFA requires either SAT or ACT scores. There is no minimum score but competitive applicants often score above 620 in evidence-based reading and writing and at least 580 in math for the SAT. For the ACT, applicants often have a composite score of 29 or higher.

4. Medical Evaluation: Candidates need to go through a medical evaluation by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board to ensure they meet the physical requirements for being in the military.

5. Fitness Assessment: Applicants are required to undertake a Candidate Fitness Assessment which consists of a basketball throw, pull-ups (or flexed arm hang for women), shuttle run, abdominal crunches, push-ups and a one-mile run.

6. Nominations: A key part of the application is securing a nomination, often from a member of Congress. There are other ways as well such as Vice Presidential nominations, nominations from the Secretary of the Air Force, etc. It's important to start this process early as it can take some time.

As for qualifications and experience, the USAFA looks for candidates with strong academic abilities, plus demonstrated leadership and physical fitness. They want students who embrace the Air Force's core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence.

Having leadership roles in extracurricular activities, especially in Civil Air Patrol or Junior ROTC, is beneficial. Likewise, good physical fitness and involvement in sports is also a plus. Keep in mind that maintaining high moral character is equally important for a service academy candidate.

Remember, the USAFA application process is lengthy and thorough, so it's best to start as early as possible in your junior year of high school. Good luck!