HOW TO GET INTO THE USMA AT WEST POINT! | Long Gray Lessons

How to get into the United States Military Academy at West Point
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What's going on everyone? It's been awhile since we've last talked. I found some time to answer a few of your questions. In this video, I talk about a few tips on how you can better your chances of getting accepted into West Point, medical school after graduation, interview techniques, and talking to your family about your decision to join the military. If you want to have your question featured in the video, leave a comment below or feel free to hit me up on any of my social media. I will continue to put up more content relating to the West Point experience and would like to assist however I can in getting you an appointment into the United States Military Academy. If you enjoyed this video and found it helpful, don't forget to like the video and subscribe to the channel. I would also encourage sharing this video so more of your future classmates can have their questions answered too!
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this video are my own and do not reflect the viewpoint of the United States Military Academy or the U.S. Army.
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[@phinthip]

I really like your vdo. My son is 13 currently in 2023 and he has had this high goal of attending West Point United State Military Academy at the age of 10. He has told me about your vdo. He is aware how hard it is to get into West Point. He is working hard right now getting all As and A+s, being a Sea Cadet, playing basketball, working on getting a black belt Taekwondo ( he is a purple belt at this time), being a volunteer at local American legion post, and etc. I know he is trying and he is working hard to equip his "wings" with skills. At the same time I also need to let him know that it is extremely competitive. Don't be discouraged if you don't get into West Point or any Service Academy. ROTC is also a good choice.

[@jenna8928]

I JUST GOT MY LETTER OF ASSURANCE THANK U FOR THE HELP

[@DavidRam-xw7bp]

THANK YOU FOR COMING BACK.

[@LongGrayLessons]

Haha! Appreciate it bro.

[@cheesestar1130]

I make almost all As and I really want to go to West point and serve my country!

[@thehomie2721]

You deserve so many subscribers. Your videos are amazing for a small channel, keep up the great work!

[@brandonmckee593]

Im a freshman in high school my current GPA is 3.5 but im taking 3 honors classes next year im also doing cross country and joining student government once i bring my grades up to 4.0 im joining honors society my dream is west point and keep up the great work Thomas love your vlogs

[@Relco12]

Brandon Mckee gj making good choices, keep it up. i fucked up my first 2 years and now stuck with a 2.3 gpa, no matter what, do your work. Keep your work and friends separate unless you know you can work together with them without messing around, and join jrotc if you have that at your school

[@portergarza6946]

It’s been 3 years , are you in?

[@budagen]

Full of information. This answers and validates a lot of questions I have. Thank you!!

[@Burzurk1987]

I used to think West Point was such an honorable institution. I think it is to some degree, but it is not entirely. I went to the Prep School in 1989/90, but did not get my appointment. I was crushed to say the least. I had about a B average. What upset me the most is that, although West Point rejected me because my grades were not high enough and that I was deemed to not have a good chance of completing the rigorous academics at West Point, there were dozens of other cadet candidates at the Prep School who had much lower grades than I had but who still received their appointments because they were recruited athletes. I remember one of them in particular because he sat next to me. While I made grades in the low to high 80s, this candidate hade many grades in the 20s, specifically in math. I saw all his low grades. He didn’t care half as much about attending West Point as I did. He was a recruited wrestler. But West Point picked him over me. Despite the fact that he failed many classes (and I didn’t), West Point some how mysteriously felt that he had a better chance of completing the academic program at West Point than I did. He received his appointment. I will never forget this!! But that’s okay. I know how West Point really is, particularly in favoring athletes who do poorly academically over others candidates like me who worked so hard and dreamed of attending West Point. I went back home and attended community college and later a four year University. I went on to become.a Marine Corps Officer. I received my commission two months before my USMAPS peers who got their appointments to USMA, including the athletes who got their appointments despite not getting good grades. Just thought all of you should know this. I’m sure this still happens to this day. Maybe one of you can look into this and stop it once and for all. If I was not as resilient as I am, and if I didn’t have friends and family who supported me, my failure to receive my appointment to West Point would have destroyed me. But it didn’t. I went on to Marine Corps OCS and became part of a true time honored brotherhood! Semper Fidelis!

[@user-fh5su4ui8w]

Just got my rejection letter! Im really depressed but it's whatever really

[@LongGrayLessons]

Steven Zuniga It happens but that shouldn't discourage you from reapplying or attending a preparatory school to better your chances of getting accepted next year. Keep at it!

[@Eli-ns5uw]

What was your GPA?

[@neilmwirigi9555]

Steven Zuniga what was your GPA?

[@Johanov01]

What was your GPA and SAT score? Please tell me :(

[@ryancamacho5915]

@@LongGrayLessons How do you get into the preparatory school?

[@Sylvia5V]

I have been very interested in going to West Point, Thanks for this information.

[@LongGrayLessons]

Glad it helped!

[@juandediosprincipe7566]

Si eres extrangero puedes ingresar a la west point????

[@christianmillar140]

Thomas what did you place on your application! Very interested in knowing!

[@honorthedodo7091]

Great video buddy! Recently I received an appointment with the head of state. Maybe you remember our conversation from snapacht

[@LongGrayLessons]

Thanks Friedrich and congrats! Let me know how it goes.

[@isaiahfernald5927]

Hey Thomas I had a quick question. I am in the Reserves and am still in high school. I was wondering if there is a way that I could apply through the Reserves. Also I finish my basic training and AIT in January, so I was wondering if there was any way I could apply to West Point then.

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Isaiah. Yes, you can apply through the Reserves. You would just have to receive a commander's endorsement from your gaining unit.

[@isaiahfernald5927]

Alright. Thank you!

[@marcodavian5487]

instaBlaster.

[@jamescallaway8715]

Thanks LT, looking forward to July 3rd. -USMA2021

[@LongGrayLessons]

James Callaway good luck!

[@naphth]

I live in Bay area and I'm going to be a freshmen after this summer. Which means, I should start preparing to go to West Point. Going to West Point was my dream since I was in elementary school, and my parents supports me as well. However, I don't know how to study and handle the GPA effectively. Can you tell me how you studied and exercised in high school specifically? Like your own study plan in high school. I want to go to West Point so bad!!!!

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Kelly. That's awesome you're interested and excited to go! Time management and learning how to prioritize is super key! If you have a calendar/journal where you can plan out all of the things you need to complete in a week, I would highly recommend that. Devote ample time for studying for each class but also time to decompress and relax. Talk to your instructors or classmates after class if you don't understand something. I would also talk to a tutor in the subject you're struggling with. Let me know if you have any questions. Good luck!

[@constantinshim4271]

Get on multiple sports teams, be in a lot of clubs, and do volunteer work on the weekends. That’s my advice.

[@lukehofer3926]

I appreciate the information! Thank You for your service!

[@thesinlife12]

Please keep making more vids!

[@LongGrayLessons]

Will do, Guillermo! I am glad you're enjoying the videos!

[@esther9112]

Do you have to know how to swim in order to get into Westpoint? What if you do not know how to swim and afraid of the water?

[@LongGrayLessons]

They will teach you how to swim at WP.

[@arjhanesfahani8952]

Hi Thomas i was wondering if West Point accepts Active Duty Army soldiers, and was wondering if after i have completed Infantry schooling and graduated Army Ranger School, do you think i will have a likelyhood of me increasing my odds of getting accepted into West Point? Thanks for your videos Thomas love the work your doing!! Keep it up👌#GoArmy

[@Mypotatostory]

Arjhan Esfahani Yes. You need to be at least 17 and no more than 23 to apply.

[@arjhanesfahani8952]

Tony Lin Thanks Tony what would you recommend me to do once i graduate from Ranger School?

[@shafay2388]

I really wanna go, but my grades in 9th and 10th grade were terrible and I suck at taking tests

[@tatalat3286]

So how did you get recognition from congress?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Tata Lat I didn't receive a congressional nomination because I went the enlisted route.

[@brandonbriseno9810]

Thomas Vlogs Is it somewhat easier to get accepted to the service academies through the enlisted route and also how can you go to a predatory school?

[@ravenzabala1571]

Hi Thomas! You've probably heard about PMA(Philippine Military Academy), I applied for an entrance examination there and still waiting for the confirmation. I've seen a lot of my fellow Filipinos that graduated in West Point and I want to follow in their footsteps because it's my dream to study in this prestigious academy America has to offer. What subjects did you study and really looked into to pass the SAT/ACT exam? THANK YOU!!!! :*

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Raven. Yes I have heard of the PMA. I have a few friends who graduated from West Point who are Filipino. I took ample AP/Honors courses in HS. Also prepared for the ACT/SAT using course prep material (Kaplan, Princeton Review, etc). Let me know if you have any questions!

[@Hockey-nd4iu]

I’m interested in West Point but I start high school next year what should I be focused on i play a sport so what else should I do to try to get in in 5 years

[@spandanchhetri2540]

Thank you sir for this very helpful video .

[@LongGrayLessons]

I am glad to help out!

[@saranavarro2351]

What would the process be like if I'm in the navy and want to switchover and go officer ?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Sara, it's a similar application process for enlisted soldiers in the Army. You will need your commander's endorsement from your chain of command. There is a little bit more paperwork involved since you're transferring branches but it's possible. More information can be found here: www.usma.edu/admissions/SitePages/FAQ_Soldiers.aspx

[@JhovanniPichardo]

Sara Navarro you can apply to the Naval Academy as a prior enlisted. I don't think you'd be able to go to West Point

[@LongGrayLessons]

You can apply from any branch of service to any service academy. If need be, I can link you up with some of my classmates who were enlisted in the Navy and Marines.

[@landocommando572]

I’m a Civil Air Patrol Cadet and I’m close to becoming an cadet officer, will this help for West Point because there is a huge leadership role in that position?

[@theikimashoclub5719]

Son is looking at WP...has good gpa well above 4.0, 33 act, potential valedictorian, varsity vb, member of fire explorers...will be co capt. in vb but in Spring after deadline for app...thoughts on areas of improvement?

[@ethanjirjis6438]

Can you be in a special forces out of West Point

[@devincazzol4254]

Late to the party, but I gotta say going to West Point is a dream of mine..sorta. I always thought about going to West Point after a few years as enlisted because I want to get a feel of the actual military and become a DI as well as get most of the specialty schools done and bring a sense of leadership from the actual military before going in and taking a officer route. I did JROTC for 4 years (I’m a senior) and I did track and swimming for two years and my GPA is a 3.9. I’ve applied and submitted my application except my congressional nomination (also I’m in my enlistment process). Would not submitting my nomination mean I’m disqualified from the West Point application process or the prep school?

[@Crusade6539]

I’m a junior with a gpa of 4.2, varsity swimmer (lettered), finalist at regionals, applying for team captain , S5 and company commander of a JROTC honor battalion, won division 4 VASE contest (gold) my first try, NHS member, AP and honor classes, apply for all state academic, held a job, applying for boy’s state, family history of enlisted service members going back to the 8th wave of D-Day, certified lifeguard, wanting to do either SF infantry or intelligence. My only concern is for my CFA and SAT/ACT. Do you think stand I chance? I have a strong feeling I could make it from my praying to god but don’t want to bet entirely on it Thank you.

[@acescalemodeling]

did you serve before you went to west point? also is it hard to go from active duty to west point or is ots better to do ?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Yes, I served as a 68W for about a year and a half with the Minnesota National Guard while I was still attending a civilian university. While you are busy with your work duties as an enlisted soldier, I wouldn't say it's harder to apply. There are a few differences in the application process. E.g. Instead of receiving a congressional nomination, you will need to receive a commander's endorsement. Hope that helps!

[@isaacmartinez1801]

@@LongGrayLessonsk

[@carlossacerio431]

I know this is 4 years ago but do you believe they are going to accept people with a lower gpa because of the pandemic with virtual learning?

[@tiffanycammuk8760]

What's it like for freshman or pleebs at west point

[@The1stGuardians]

I always hear people talk about sports and being a team captain etc can really help your chances but what about JROTC? I plan on taking JROTC all 4 years and will eventually be my units Cadet Commander (essentially a JROTC team captain) so does anyone know if that could work in the place of sports? (I can also earn a Varsity letter for JROTC)

[@1dw1]

If im a marine corps reservist and I apply, can I still do both?

[@esther9112]

When your major is medical related, does Westpoint send you to the country you came from for you to study there? For ex: If one is korean does Westpoint send you to korea to study there?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Nope. Your assignment is on preference and luck. Depends on your branch too.

[@alexfortier3637]

Hey Thomas, great vid, I was appointed and can't wait to go! I'm just curious about like how much time on average a plebe has to shower and stuff and what they're like?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Alex. Congratulations on the appointment! Plebes have an unlimited amount of time to shower (unless you're taking hours).

[@juanjosebarradas5469]

If you do a sport say like soccer do also go to the army as well...

[@LongGrayLessons]

Yes! West Point offers several D1 sports teams that compete nationally.

[@divinemonologue]

so i go to NMMI highschool, does it increase my chance of getting accepted to west point?

[@adoseofdylan]

Hey, Thomas! Great video! I have a quick question for you. So, I've been homeschooled since 1st grade (currently in 10th) and I travel the world full-time with my family. This makes it a bit tough to join any sports teams or clubs and achieve a leadership status. I have, however, helped put on multiple homeschooling conferences these past few years. I was wondering if this might be able to count as a leadership skill? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Dylan. Glad you enjoyed the video. Thank you for your question and for sharing your background. It's an excellent one. Coordinating those homeschooling conferences is absolutely a leadership experience. Remember, any position that requires you to make an executive decision for many others count! You'll just have to convey that in your personal essays and during your interviews. Hope that helps.

[@adoseofdylan]

Thomas Vlogs Awesome! Thank you! This really takes some weight off my shoulders. :) I plan on applying to West Point next year. I think I'm pretty well prepared. Thank you again for answering my questions.

[@RoadToMan]

Did you ever get in man?

[@kevinzheng2898]

Why would you sever for thr us?

[@robbyburns5822]

Hey Thomas, was wondering if being an exceptional musician can boost your chances of getting into West Point (myself being a bassoonist). Also was wondering if there is such thing as a music department at West Point. If you could answer me I'd be more than grateful, thanks!

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey there! Absolutely. West Point looks at all applicants holistically. Being musically talented is certainly looked positively upon. West Point has a band and several choirs.

[@jamesstarling7573]

What was your GPA junior and senior year?

[@martinjonah741]

hello am martin from Ghana and my question is that i have applied to west point buh the nomination deadline is up what can i do

[@esther9112]

Do every student receive military training? Do you have to go to a good high school in order to get accepted?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Yes, it’s a military school. And no, you don’t have to go to a good high school to get accepted.

[@bbbko2841]

I'm going to become a junior in high school soon. A lot of my classes are really hard since they are ap and I some times get bs but I mostly will get As on my report card. Do they look at difficulty of classes. Also for the past 2 summers of highschool I go to Taiwan and i help volunteer at a prep school where I help teach English and do other things to help the kids out on their English learning. Does this count as leadership?

[@LongGrayLessons]

They certainly do look at difficulty of courses when assessing your application. As long as you are putting that on your application and explaining why it is significant/what you have learned, it will assist!

[@cucumberbennie79]

Can I apply as an international cadet? By the way, I've already been a freshman in an university, where should I begin ? Hope to get reply from you soon. Thanks !

[@acescalemodeling]

it wouldn't let me reply was it hard to get the commanders endorsement?

[@LongGrayLessons]

No, you just have to start the conversation with your chain of command and fill out the necessary paperwork.

[@DANNYYIM1999]

Hey Thomas, so I will be applying to West Point this fall time, and I have most of my resume and requirements put together. currently I am the yearbook and school photographer for several events. Photography is a huge passion and hobby of mine on top of the other leadership and community service activities I do. it isn't vital, but are there opportunities for students to do photography work for the school?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Danny. There are several opportunities for photography/video work while you're at West Point. I've done my fair share. Long Grey Cinemas was one of the clubs I helped work on while I was still there. They make spirit videos for different teams there. You can also do work for the Howitzer (yearbook). Try reaching out to the Public Affairs Officer (PAO) while you're there. Hope that helps.

[@DANNYYIM1999]

Thomas Vlogs Sounds great! Does the school have alot of equipment that the students use? And also, I forgot to mention thats for the great and informative video!

[@LongGrayLessons]

The school doesn't really rent out any equipment to the cadets. Cadets usually have all the hardware and glass. LGC is a great group to connect with cadets who do have the equipment. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@haliefaith5]

Joining west point with a Associates... will you graduate earlier... Or do they make you pick a new major?

[@matthewsalazar2509]

You cannot graduate early. It's a 4 year education for everyone. You can pick whatever major you want when you get there.

[@legoknight2]

Sir, what camera and software do you use?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Shane, I shot this video on a Canon G7x Mark II and I edit on Adobe Premiere Pro.

[@sboss8616]

Hey Thomas I have a quick question. I don’t know how well you are able to answer this but I am really curious. I have above a 4.0 gpa and my counselor says at this rate I will be in the top 5% of my class. I have received a national leadership award and am working toward attending boys state. I am only a sophomore but my psat scores predict me to be in top percents of west point applicant scores ( I still have yet to take the tests so it is not my final score). I play football and run track. I am on the executive board for my student council and am applying for a leadership position in my school beta club. Next year I plan on applying for the National Honors Society. I am in marching band and concert band. I am also on the verge of getting my eagle scout as well. I know this is a hard question to answer but I am very curious. I have wanted to get in to West Point for years and have worked toward that goal. What do you think my chances are for getting in?

[@Relco12]

I had a 2.23 GPA my sophomore year last but this year I’ve managed to turn around my grades and got an honor roll my first term, I also have 3 years in JROTC. With a horribly low GPA do you think I could join? Or is there no hope

[@FlyBiz]

Great video man! I've been informed by quite a few of my peers that active duty military have a number of "reserved" slots when applying. Is that true? Does being active duty put you ahead of your peers at all?

[@LongGrayLessons]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. Yes they do have a certain number of slots for active duty/reserved/NG. I don't believe so at all. Everyone is assessed on a number of things to include being prior service.

[@Bk-ec5zb]

sir i am balakrishnan from india how to get into USMA as international student

[@kimdongmin_2806]

Is it a good advantage to enter military college that taking subject of JROTC ?

[@callingacejack1334]

Could I, as a german attend West Point to later serve in the US Army?

[@708mattt]

If you go to West Point as an international cadet, then after you graduate, you will serve in your country’s military

[@Spence77]

What's a good GPA?

[@Tacomoo]

Hey Thomas, I'm also thinking about working at National Guard, could you please tell me how was like in your first day.

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey there! My first day was a long time ago...haha. I would suggest doing some research on your own, consulting some peers who have been through the process, and going in and talking to a recruiter. If you have any questions outside of that, feel free to reach out to me over my social media! I'm more than happy to assist and answer any lingering questions! Best of luck!

[@ivanimperial6260]

How to join West Point if you are foreigner? From philippines

[@smoothyoda3581]

Do you think it would be possible for me and my friend to both get into West Point at the same year?

[@thegrind5677]

Whats the process for soldiers that already completed basic training in order to us to attend west point?

[@rogfromthegarage8158]

Here's what I did: I was a Cobra helicopter mechanic. One day, a pilot (Captain) was just finishing up after a flight and I got up the nerve to ask him, "How does a guy like me get to do what you do instead of what I do?" Luckily, he said, "I went to West Point". He helped me find out how to register to the ACT test (too late to take SAT that year). I did well on ACT (97 percentile in math). Next step was a short meeting with the Company Commander. He asked me to write a 2-page paper on something ("articulating pylons"), which I did. Apparently that was good enough and he let me apply to USMAPS. BTW, my high school GPA was only a 3.2. So basically, it would help if you can find a West Point grad officer to vouch for you and just apply. What does it hurt? Good luck.

[@nielmonfort4168]

hey Thomas I was just wondering what your gpa and test scores were when you applied. and did you transfer from a civilian college?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Niel. I had a 4.0 GPA and a 25 on my ACT (didn't take the SAT). And yes, I transferred from a civilian university.

[@Ketsy16]

What if my academics are not good enough? I did a lot of extracullicular activities and was really involved in my JROTC program.

[@Ketsy16]

@Kimberly Nguyen hey! This was a long time ago but I just got accepted to the prep school

[@jha3676]

@@Ketsy16 what was your gpa?

[@ryan-mj6ts]

@@Ketsy16 congrats!

[@Ketsy16]

@@jha3676 it was 4.3 weighted and 3.8 unweighted

[@neptune8898]

I am interested in attending many different Military Schools, the one I wish to go to more than any other is VMI (Virginia Military Institute) And I have recently stepped up to a new level. I have been working on Academics, My overall Physical capability, and much more. And I'm only 12! I do worry though, I want to apply to several different schools but the only ones I know FOR SURE I will apply to is West Point and VMI. Any suggestions? Reply below.

[@jezebelsaudios]

• Neptune • hey, work hard when you get to eighth grade. just a tip.

[@annielassie4807]

Great for you thinking about the future!

[@annielassie4807]

In high school and middle school a lot of people joke about their grades and laugh off their failure. Of course this is a coping mechanism but you should really strive to be someone who always wants the best grade possible. That also means cutting yourself some slack and understanding you can’t always get hundreds and understanding that grades is not your whole life. As you get older surround yourself with people that care just as much about their future as you. I have seen good people change because they got involved with the wrong people. Best of luck! (Also be a kid, enjoy life and have fun.)

[@yyumanager4709]

I’m two years late and your probably a freshman but the citadel is very good military school

[@morganortega5298]

Please I have a question! I am not nor have been doing sports in school at all. I'm a junior and am planning to do track next year, and I am currently training on my own for the fitness test for West Point. Do you think my lack of physical activities will hurt my chances of admission, even if I'm a strong student and have other nonphysical activities?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Listar. Having physical activities would certainly help you getting admitted but I don't think not having any would put you at risk. As long as you're working on your physical fitness and displaying your time in some other extracurricular activities.

[@morganortega5298]

thank you for your response! i'll do my best

[@yougotnoyams7325]

Hey Thomas! I really love these vids you make :) I am a sophomore in HS with a IEP ( a learning disability in math specifically) my grades are fine other than math which is a c+. Will that affect any chances for me to apply?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey there! I'm glad you enjoy the videos! I highly encourage you to still apply. West Point likes to look at applicants holistically so ensure you are striving hard in all areas.

[@AzingGaming]

Does marshal arts like aikido count as a team sport ?

[@LongGrayLessons]

It absolutely does!

[@isakhan2588]

Dear Thomas Vlogs, Do you think being a president weighs more than being the vice president, even though it's really a team position?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Isa, I personally think what's more important is how you lead others and the impact you have on the organization regardless of the position you are in. You can still positively influence others without being the president or vice-president!

[@isakhan2588]

Thomas Vlogs, Thank you. That's what I thought as well

[@rafaelandrada4434]

Can foreign persons serve(I'm a brazilian guy) for example,and what would be the age??

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Rafael. International students can certainly attend West Point. Check out West Point's International Cadets Program here: www.usma.edu/admissions/SitePages/Pros_Cadets_International.aspx I have seen multiple Brazilian students at West Point for a semester exchange when I was there.

[@violetmorgan3797]

Would it be helpful to be a eagle scout in boy scouts

[@mjj8788]

It is a plus. Shows all the things the Lt. talked about.

[@sullyanncarpio7450]

I’m a junior in high school! Should I get into the interview my senior year?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Schedule an appointment with your local congressman/senator during senior year when you begin applying.

[@dismasdillon1514]

Do you know an Aidan Dillon? He's my brother, he's a senior at West Point

[@LongGrayLessons]

Unfortunately, I don't! :/

[@funnycat9934]

Hello! I am Emmaleigh (pronounced Emily, just spelled uniquely). Currently, I am a sophomore in high school. West Point has been an off and on goal of mine; however, as I keep nearing graduation it is becoming more of a solid goal. What I would like to know, is do you really have to be a 'perfect' student in order to get accepted? By perfect I mean, a 4.0 or greatly near GPA, almost perfect grade in every course, taking the most advanced courses in high school, receiving honor roll, etc. The reason I am asking is that I have just about memorized West Point's website and all that is on there is statistics of current classes' high school information. Within the information is students who have, what it seems like, an almost perfect academic record. In my case, it is a little discouraging because my freshman year was a learning one. I only ever made honor roll once, and my GPA ended up being a 3.5; however, I took an honors math course that was really difficult for me and scored low Bs or high C's throughout the year, which put me shy of reciving honor roll and getting a higher GPA. I took other challenging honor courses and did well. This year, I am taking honors and college courses, and am off to a great start. So, overall I am asking if I have a chance even if I don't have a perfect academic record? Thank you and God Bless, Emmaleigh

[@xBlankScreenDenmark]

You won't get instantly denied for having a 3.5 your freshman year. There's obviously no minimum GPA to apply, so as long you keep your grades up, shoot for honor roll, involve yourself with your school and extracurriculars, and do good on the SAT or ACT, you should be good.

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Emmaleigh. Thanks for sharing your story. You do not have to be "perfect" to attend West Point. I'm a clear example of a non-traditional student making it into West Point. West Point is highly selective when choosing their candidates but they look at all students holistically. Don't feel discourage because of one or two semesters. Show that you are improving over time and also developing yourself in other areas outside of academics. West Point is looking for the well-rounded students that have the potential to adapt, think quickly, make decisive decisions, and communicate effectively. Continue to work hard and put in for an application if you feel West Point is something you would like to pursue. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to me on my social media!

[@blueninja1779]

Do I have to be in an Army JROTC in order to go to West Point? My high school only has an Air Force JROTC

[@LongGrayLessons]

No, you don't. Being in JROTC certainly helps but it's not a requirement nor does it weigh more over other extracurriculars. Good leadership experience though.

[@blueninja1779]

Thomas, I'm going into 8th grade and I'm wondering on what tips you have on what I should do to get a head start

[@benwestphal9625]

Hey Thomas, I’m a sophomore in HS, looking to apply for the USMA. My mom is always on my ass saying how I need to do volunteer hours in order to get into it, if I have the minimum to graduate is this okay? Or does West Point genuinely care about the community service hours?

[@goodolsalami4698]

They definitely care about extra service hours. You really need to work your ass off to get in.

[@evanosborne2228]

What does JROTC do to ROTC

[@LongGrayLessons]

It's just more military preparation for the ROTC/USMA/OCS or on the enlisted side. A great way to learn about the military while building discipline/structure.

[@destinypatrick7872]

Hi I have a few other questions

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Destiny. What questions do you have?

[@rishabkishor4582]

i have the same shirt

[@LongGrayLessons]

Great minds think alike!

[@rishabkishor4582]

YA RIGHT! FOREVER 21 anyway can you make a video for foreigners who want to join west point

[@jongwu4523]

Will it be harder for me to get into the academy if I'm homeschooled???

[@xBlankScreenDenmark]

The admissions department will look at your application the same way they would a traditional high school student. If you "graduate" at like 15 or 16, enroll in community college classes for a year or two until you're old enough to meet the age requirement.

[@jongwu4523]

Blank Screen thx

[@edwintunacao6860]

Thank you for this video sir,i have a question sir?i heared some filipino can join in west point academy,im filipino and im not a US citizen,haven't greencard.im here in Philipine.what is the qualification to able to apply sir?

[@xBlankScreenDenmark]

Yes, international students can apply: www.usma.edu/admissions/SitePages/Pros_Cadets_International.aspx

[@LongGrayLessons]

^^ We've had several international students from the Philippines attend West Point. Check out the West Point International Program in the link above.

[@angelsalazarsalazar8940]

Hi Thomas does boy scouts help

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hey Angel! Participating in Boy's Scouts certainly helps with admissions!

[@vergance_softwares]

1600 SAT and 4.0 GPA, but no extra curriculars, will I get accepted?

[@harrismarino1932]

to be honest probably not. You need strength good grades and leadership skills. I'd work on getting some leadership skills on you application.

[@vergance_softwares]

Harris Marino Well, I go to the gym 4 days a week. But I also have the number one spot for 5 short story contests.

[@quangtinpham1265]

Can Vietnamese take scholarship in Westpoint?

[@708mattt]

They can become an international cadet

[@fbvmivfma5237]

Go to the maps

[@NguyenDung-qt5yg]

Can you speak vietnamese? Do you remember vietnam?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Hello Minh. Yes I can speak Vietnamese!

[@Field213]

If you are currently serving in the military and want to attend Westpoint and apply, when accepted are you automatically relieved from your unit and sent to Westpoint or do you need to finish your contract?

[@xBlankScreenDenmark]

IDK about Army, but for Marines going to USNA, your current contract is forgiven and you are sent to the academy on I Day.

[@LongGrayLessons]

When you receive an acceptance, you current contract is terminated and you will start a new contract with West Point.

[@marioduarte7560]

Rice gum after military training

[@kirtjoe283]

Good Night lol

[@longnguyenthanh7230]

West point có học bổng không ạ

[@LongGrayLessons]

Co e.

[@christianmillar140]

Hey Thomas! I am currently very interested in going to West Point and I was wondering if you could review my application. I have a 4.4 GPA. I am a member of the speech and debate society, and I am a member of the Student Council. I have attended the American Legion Boys State and I am an Eagle Scout. In my Boy Scout Troop, I served as the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, as well as the Senior Patrol Leader. I play boys volleyball (IT'S a big sport in SOCAL) and I am a starter on the team. I have not been captain, but I have been co-captain once. How does my application look?

[@LongGrayLessons]

Looks good but keep working away at it!

[@christianmillar140]

What other things do you suggest?

[@lr9495]

Perhaps community service? I'm not from Westpoint or anything, but there was this one guy who got accepted to 4 service academies and community service was on the list.

[@Sean-gz4yu]

Looks incredible, wish I picked up interest before junior year, idk what to do but just to continue to work hard in school

[@dallenoleson2237]

Hi, I am in eighth grade going into ninth.I have been looking into it a lot. So what would I do right after graduating from the USMA at West Point?

[@Relco12]

Dallen Oleson Join the Army or work a career youve considered in highschool

[@DinoXaviz]

Hi Thomas ! I know it’s a old vid but, I’m 22 years old played high school baseball, and I had a 3.1 gpa, I just started jc a year ago and maintain a 3.3 so far, so I wanted to know if I’m too old for West Point?

[@kirtjoe283]

trill valley i am pretty sure you are the right age to apply, however try double checking on the go army website

[@jarodputhukudy936]

so many cuts and retakes lol not laughing at you, im laughing with you

[@creatorr24]

IF YOU HAVE MONEY THEY WILL TAKE YOU. PROBLEM SOLVES

[@jongwu4523]

You can have millions of dollars, that alone will still not get you into West Point, who told you money will get you in?

[@goodolsalami4698]

creatorr24 when you graduate West Point, there are men counting on you to lead them, and if you can’t prove you are the right person to lead people, they couldn’t give 2 shits about your money