How To Get Into The US Service Academies

[@kevtheman7226]

I got into USAFA!!

[@navalaviation]

Congrats. That's a great school but we're enemies from now on :)

[@Kushal145]

@@navalaviation why man why are u enemy i love defence forces

[@ryder5465]

@@Kushal145 cause JC is navy and the other guy is air force.

[@kailambchops5099]

how did it/ is it going

[@Kushal145]

@@ryder5465 oh i didn't know that thanks buddy

[@DangLao06]

Three years ago I watched this video as a freshman. Today, I just received my appointment to the Naval Academy Class of 2028. How time flies. Thank you so much for your guidance and inspiration. You really made an impact on me and so many others.

[@jlogs872]

also got admitted to the class of 2028 as well. can't wait for the adventure ahead-

[@masterdrdan2362]

Are there any tips you have since I (regrettably) have not been playing sports as a freshman? I'd do plan to do a lot more for Sophomore year since I have 1 month till summer break, would you have any sport recommendations for someone such as myself?

[@mrclean30]

@@masterdrdan2362i’m in the same boat but i’m doing track and xc this year, for some reason last year i kept telling myself i was gonna join a team and then when it came time do actually do it i got scared and didn’t. my only excuse is that i was working a lot but the only thing i really did other than that was the gym and school. hopefully i didn’t blow it

[@papaparsnip2285]

Not Naval but I want to go to the Air Force Academy, this video was pretty helpful. You put them in a helpful order, I appreciate the tips.

[@PepperThePrince]

Have a 1000 Score on your ASVAB

[@davidanthony3985]

I think something that could be added is to not worry about rejection too much. You can apply many years in a row if you don’t get in the first time. Enlisting and applying is also an option. Long story short, if you want to go to an academy, you can get yourself in to an academy, even if you take the long road. Great tips and great video!

[@navalaviation]

Thanks for the compliment and I do plan to present that info in my next video! Thank you

[@almoemason]

Not that many, you can't have reached your 23rd birthday.

[@wnynyn]

Wow, as a parent of a high school student, while going to the military is not on top of list, I find this incredibly helpful and insightful. Sharing this to my teenager now. Thank you!

[@GreenG-314]

This was really good. I don't think everyone understands that the application process is an 18 month commitment. There are some nuances regarding the competitiveness of your slate that people form NC, TX, FL, DC and a few other states need to be aware of ( slots are limited by nomination, and those states are very competitive due to the number of bases which = candidates). I highly recommend checking out the Service Academy forums and doing your research. It's a long process, and pretty stressful, but my daughter is USMA class of 24. Here's the other thing - if you're a parent - be supportive, but don't own the process - this is a tough road, and your child has to want it badly enough to put in the work because it's not going to get easier.

[@navalaviation]

Yes sir. Wholeheartedly agree

[@katekelly5827]

Hi! I’m a junior in high school and will be applying to class of 2025 for USNA and West Point. An in depth video about the nomination process and interview would be super helpful! Thanks for such informative videos!

[@navalaviation]

I'll look into it. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@selahattinkaskc8668]

did you get in ?

[@lablabdog]

Did you get accepted

[@susanksmith]

My niece just got her letter of appointment to the Naval Academy last week! Love your videos; they give me an idea of what her experience will be

[@navalaviation]

Congratulations to your niece! Can't wait to meet the next incoming class

[@stankakol5195]

How to get in? Be smart as hell and mature way beyond your years. Those guys at the military academies are cut from a different cloth. Just the best!!

[@kuriaak]

welll that's one way of doing it! I don't think I'm exceptionally smart or mature lol. I personally think it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get in. even if you aren't exceptionally smart or mature, challanging yourself to become those things is just a good if not better. take AP classes even if you think it's out of your league or will be too hard. step up into leadership roles even if you're uncomfortable doing so or you aren't a good leader. that's what I did and I still don't know of I'm smart or mature enough for the Academy! eventually, if you persist and never give up, you'll start to become those things as you step up to the challange. if you're the smartest or best person in a room, you're in the wrong room! I believe your attitude when it comes to facing a challenge is what will differeciate your from the rest of the applicants when applying to the academies.

[@selahattinkaskc8668]

@@kuriaak why you blocked mr andrew.

[@kurtiscobain3224]

I’m in 11th grade right now. I have my Eagle Scout award and have a 3.9 gpa. The only problem I have is testing. I need to take the SAT probably this year so I’m going to study hard in my free time. I’m also going to get more involved with running and I’m going to do a summer seminar at the usna. Hopefully I can call myself a midshipmen in a couple years!

[@clairew5480]

i’m a rising sophomore in hs and this video rly helped me :) also the editing on this is sick

[@navalaviation]

Thanks man. Glad it helped

[@juliab2560]

Nice job editing i can tell you are putting more effort in! All the pop up pics and text takes a while you are doing good :)

[@lueyang3065]

Great video! It'd be super cool if you can do a tips and advice video for Plebe Summer and your first year at the academy.

[@navalaviation]

Will look into it. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@gabbyhaag8542]

Could you please make a video for incoming plebes including what helped you prepare and what to send in care packages or have your parents bring to PPW?

[@navalaviation]

I'll look into it. Thanks for the recommendation

[@gracia9426]

Good info. Just wanna add that there are other ways to get a nomination. My son rec'd his nominations from JROTC school and from being a child of 100% disabled vet. He got appointments from USNA, USCGA, and USAFA.

[@bransonpiantavinha9116]

thanks very much for the information now i know that i can get my nomination from my JROTC high school class

[@angelarobles6416]

Thank you so much for this information!! I have a question. How many nominations would one need for the application process to the academy?

[@ryan-mj6ts]

@@angelarobles6416 Just one nomination. A nomination is specific to that one service academy. So you might get a nomination to West Point or a nomination to USAFA. If you only get a nomination to West Point, you won’t be able to get into USAFA.

[@jonmarkmarotta8825]

There is another way to get a nomination. If you are a JROTC cadet and your battalion holds the Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) designation then the instructions can write a nomination.

[@navalaviation]

I was not aware of that. Thank you for making that known.

[@katrinanye8115]

I really appreciate your videos JC. I always think of people who actually get an appointment and almost 'godlike' lol. You make it seem more human, like it's a reasonable goal.

[@olliversdad8447]

Hey JC. I’m Academy class of 1992. I’m also Asian. We didn’t have as many asian students back then.

[@robertwebster2030]

This was such a great and helpful video. I've been looking for something like this for a while.

[@typecoutlet5021]

Wish I would have seen this video before I graduated, Annapolis was my dream school.

[@TheRizzlerRegiment]

Thank you! Joining sea cadets, in 8th rn. Gonna work my ass of to get there. I’ll try to get captain position with varsity tennis.

[@chrisakins692]

If you are active military you can also get a nomination from your Service Secretary. I was active duty Navy, and received my nomination from the Secretary of the Navy.

[@jeffswoyer9898]

Things have I changed since I joined AFROTC (University of MO), 40+ years ago, when dinosaurs ruled the earth. I was a "walk in" for AFROTC (it may have been because the Vietnam War was still in everyone's mind). I had a great career. Considering that I was the 1st officer in our family, I was very happy with my career. If you can't get in an academy, try AFROTC. I couldn't compete with today's students, I would be lucky to make it into Community College.

[@jeffswoyer9898]

Thanks, Stay Safe, Good luck on Graduation

[@fiendishtech9624]

I'm a rising Junior in HS, just finished Sophomore year. I am a C/SSgt (planning on reaching at least C/2d LT) in the Civil Air Patrol, Eagle Scout, and president of my school's aviation club. I have a 3.9 unweighted GPA, have a SAT of 1360 (doing test prep rn to get it higher), and currently on the Track Sprints team. I have 300 hours of volunteer service at the hospital so far. What else do you recommend me to do in order to boost my chances of entering a service academy? Thanks a ton for the video as well, keep up the great content!

[@navalaviation]

Keep going! Try getting into some leadership positions either on your track team or on a club in school. You have plenty of time but reconsider taking the SAT again to get a better score. Grind out your AP's during your junior year. You're on track right now. Just make sure to kill it your junior year

[@mckenziesalder8535]

I’m going to the usna seminar this summer 🥹

[@tianijohnson9593]

So am I! But for some reason, I am so nervous!

[@justinwells2612]

@@tianijohnson9593 I know u

[@sandracampbell7046]

Hi JC I was just talking about you and I look in my phone and you was there.Thank God bless him 🙏❤♥

[@legendary_eman]

Good video @JC this video gave me more information. Thank you so much.

[@eungkim1807]

My son will attend USNA summer stem this summer, he is a rising 9th grader.

[@-narc-5495]

Thanks for this video wow actually very helpful I’m a freshman right now pray for me that in 3 years you’ll see me in naval academy, and I know ima be there because ima work my ass off

[@almoemason]

Why all the question here, The service academies all have websites that lay out the requirements in details. The only flexibility is getting an appointment from your congressmen or alternate path.

[@emilymiller4528]

Got into summer seminar for Naval. Too bad it got canceled I was really looking forward to it.

[@navalaviation]

Don't worry. You got accepted and that's all that matters. Try and visit sometime to make sure you like the atmosphere.

[@JosephKenyonblopskroll2addict]

You didn’t attend VNASS?

[@navalaviation]

@@JosephKenyonblopskroll2addict Sorry, I have no idea what VNASS is?

[@JosephKenyonblopskroll2addict]

JC Virtual Summer Seminar since we couldn’t attend the traditional one due to Coronavirus

[@marklara5529]

This young man is dial-in 🇺🇸

[@mathisreallyfun]

Because you’re amazing Justin!!!

[@coleswilliams7232]

Honestly this video is intimidating

[@navalaviation]

That's actually my fault. I hope I can make the process less intimidating in the next video.

[@coleswilliams7232]

@@navalaviation no I think it's important to know what you will have to do. So that you can mentally prepare yourself

[@jonathanmendoza66]

I want to say thank you for the help and thank you for your service

[@navalaviation]

Thanks man. Hope the video helped

[@jonathanmendoza66]

JC hi

[@kokocrazy2590]

Thank you for posting again!

[@brundvn]

Make a vid on how to build a resume for service academies! 😛

[@kokocrazy2590]

Brandon Sigurdsson I thought the same thing

[@ricksanchez9232]

I wanted to attend the airforce academy, but I was too late in my application, did college ROTC instead, but was told my eyes would prevent me from becoming a fighter pilot, so I dropped out and studied engineering instead.

[@kuriaak]

Hi! My name is Andrew Kuria and I'm a senior currently applying to the Naval Academy. This video is great and super informational. If I get in next spring, I look forward to being your shipmate next year!

[@kuriaak]

btw I have a 3.4 unweighted GPA and a 3.6 weighted. my ACT is a 33 composite and my SAT is a 1500 composite. I have taken 4 AP classes so far and am taking 4 right now although I will be getting credit for 9 courses because I self studied for one test. I wasn't able to participate in the summer programs for the USNA but I did attend a Candidate Visit Weekend. I am on the varsity swim team but due to COVID and personal reasons I won't participate this year. instead I am going to be a manager for the team. I also was on the high school soccer team in 10th grade and I have been doing Track since 8th grade at the high school level (not varsity yet). I know this is a very hard question to answer but how do you think I rank competitively in the admissions process based on this information?

[@bridgebach5900]

@@kuriaak I'm applying as well. Best of luck friend!

[@selahattinkaskc8668]

did you guys get in

[@kuriaak]

@@selahattinkaskc8668 yea, actually! I received a conditional offer appointment contingent on medical in April and I just did a test for the waiver last week and passed so it's smooth sailing from here.

[@selahattinkaskc8668]

@@kuriaak oh nice

[@adamnajera2371]

I only took an advanced math class my sophomore year and didn’t take any AP classes but I had a 3.8 gpa first semester and 4.0 second semester . Did I set myself up in a bad position by not taking any AP’s?

[@navalaviation]

Not at all. Nice job. If you got a 4.0 though, I think you're ready to take on some AP classes next year. Only take as much as you can handle. It's better to get an A in an easier class than a C in an AP. But defintiely challenge yourself!

[@abhisailesh7727]

Just and FYI, for the Air Force Academy Summer Seminar, you don’t take an actual CFA because they don’t want to overdo it with the altitude and all. I have no clue how I’m gonna adjust because I’m going for the class of 24 in June.

[@navalaviation]

Thanks man

[@ryankeating1852]

Abhi Sailesh your basic will be easy don’t stress it

[@andrewtran4638]

Summer seminars for USNA are closed this year 😪

[@navalaviation]

RIP

[@lablabdog]

You can talk to your local navy recruiter and he/she will get you into the navy

[@calebmiller2094]

Just got into USNA today !

[@navalaviation]

Congrats Caleb. Can’t wait to yell at ya next year

[@louissejoaquingabrang1753]

@@navalaviation I'm from the philippines and I want to ask how to get into USNA if you live in the philippines I hope you can read because my dream is to join USNA.

[@gusthegoat250]

Did you have to go through the medical process

[@louissejoaquingabrang1753]

@@gusthegoat250 hehe im 13 year old and im planing to get in usna. im just asking any tips before i turn to 17 to ready myself in any requirements to get in naval academy.

[@calebmiller2094]

@@louissejoaquingabrang1753 get in shape and start off and maintain good grades in high school. Also involved yourself in as many community services and leadership positions as you can. And begin to really think why you want to attend and serve the country

[@noahredfern3950]

so i’m a sophomore in hs (yeah i know im early) but west point has always been my dream. I have a 3.6 unweighted, 3.8 weighted. I tore my acl and am in rehab but before that I was captain of my high school freshmen soccer team(as a freshman) and play club soccer year round. I just got accepted into a 6 week internship for YMHA which is fairly prestigious as well as having done numerous hours of volunteering for my church such as service projects or community service. I am in my schools Honors Chmabr Orchestra and we were 1/4 highschool orchestras in the world chosen to do an international performance. I havnt taken SAT or ACT yet and I am in good shape. How am I looking and what else should I do to heighten my chances?

[@RamseyC-t9i]

Same here dude. I have a 3.75/3.8 unweighted (at one of the top highschools in the country, highly competetive selection (3k apply, ~140 get in)). I have about 100 hrs of service currently. I also play piano, do speech, and do Taekwondo (about 6 months away from black belt). Im also going to the USNA this summer for their stem camp, and also I am going out of state to do construction service at a church. However, my only downfall is that I fall on the heavier side and don't participate in a sport other than Taekwondo (which i DONT do competively, moreso for self defense). My PSAT was ok, 1180 this year (no prep whatsover) falling in the 91st percentile nationally. Just wanted to let you know that there were other sophmores considering.Good luck on your path dude.

[@noahredfern3950]

@@RamseyC-t9i good luck to you as well brother. Seen you in 2027 🙏

[@GavinDaley-gu4gh]

@@RamseyC-t9i Hey, just curious because I've also applied for the summer stem camp this year. You've already gotten an acceptance back? I applied in February, but applications ended 2 days ago. Just on that same path too, good luck brother.

[@RamseyC-t9i]

@@GavinDaley-gu4gh Yes. I was sent acceptance letter about 1 1/2 weeks ago.

[@SpooderOfficial]

@@GavinDaley-gu4gh Are you a rising junior? Cuz im going to the stem camp this year too! I might see you

[@josephdecarlo4869]

I went to Candidate Weekend this year, and I am a little sad that USNA and USMA had to cancel their summer seminars. I hope all is well, and thank you for this video. As a swimmer my season was cut short for SCY, and LCM has been completely cancelled until June. This being the case I haven't been able to get my times to where they need to be for Coach Roberts to officially recruit me. Granted, my times are fast enough to walk-on, and some of the other academies have recruited me for swimming, but in this current scenario I cannot improve my times until next year. Seeing as you're a water polo player, and you got the opportunity to walk-onto the team, what was your communication with the coach like, if at all? I have contacted all of the service academies, as well as military schools with swim teams, and they all have a very different demeanor when it comes to myself.

[@hydebosley5336]

On a scale from 1-10, in relation to everything else, how important is being an Eagle Scout? My GPA is not phenomenal, but my PSAT is really good and I'm taking the SAT and ACT soon.

[@navalaviation]

Maybe around a 3. GPA and SAT is a lot more important. Just do better with your GPA and make sure to do good on the SAT and you should be good.

[@kuchnasty7112]

I am enlisted and plan on trying to put a package in next year

[@emmaholloman7167]

Thank you. This is a very helpful video!

[@Anthony-ec4rl]

Hey do you remember me talking about my candidate visit weekend back in February! Well it went great!

[@navalaviation]

Awesome to hear man. Hope to see you here soon

[@elisaac49]

Good day sir, I just stumbled upon your post on KZbin since I am helping my son to be accepted at USNA next year. He just finished the 2024 summer seminar last June and he is convinced to pursue this dream. I consider him an average student and consistently getting awards from elementary to middle school , his first 2 years in high school I still consider good but his junior year in not very good since he joined the varsity wrestling team, his focus shifted to wrestling which paid of since be is the inland empire 116 lbs. champion and will be the team captain this coming senior year but he have a D in AP pre calculus, he still has an above 4.0 GPA and is in JROTC with a rank of 1st. lt. and commander of the drill team and about to become a squadron commander his senior year . He is also the lead altar server in our church that trains incoming altar servers. Can I ask your help , any advice and motivation to have a better chance of being accepted is very much appreciated. Thank you very much.

[@asianswole8092]

Lol, finally someone mentions the Merchant Marine Academy

[@navalaviation]

I don't leave them out :)

[@punch3873]

hey, i have a quick question, though i’m not sure if you’ll see this. i’ve only just started considering joining the naval academy, and i’m going to become a junior this year. i haven’t done so well in terms of grades in both freshman year and sophomore year-is that okay? like, will it completely disregard me from applications because of those poor grades, or is it okay as long as i do like, super good in junior year with extracurriculars, athletics, grades, and etc?

[@SpooderOfficial]

What's your GPA right now? If it's REALLY bad then I'd encourage you to take some AP and honors courses. I know it may be tough but it will definitely boost your (weighted) GPA and look good on your transcript. Take stuff like AP Calculus, AP History, AP Psych, etc. and try to slide in some honors classes if possible as well. Just try to shoot for the 3.8+ weighted GPA range. Keep up with the idea of extracurriculars though. Sports, volunteer work, and ESPECIALLY leadership positions (team captain, president of a club, leader of an instrument section/being a drum major in band etc.) Leadership positions are the most important considering that the academy is prepping you to lead a bunch of enlisted sailors. Generally, you are in luck considering that colleges tend to not take your freshman year transcript too seriously and focus on your sophomore, junior, and senior year transcripts more. Try to grind out your SAT as well when the time finally comes. Study HARD. A minimum score on your SAT to shoot for is around 1350, but it can slide a little bit lower if you have outstanding extracurriculars. Also, you might want to consider going to the Naval Academy Summer Seminar program when you're a rising senior next year, keep up the grades and write a decent essay and you can get in. Consider getting a job over that summer that has the traits of a leader or are a bit more complex that what an average high school kid would do (stuff like being a lifeguard generally look better than a burger flipper or shelve stocker.) Good luck!! Hope this helps :)

[@almoemason]

No, you probably won't be able to get an appointment.

[@Shawn-go7zr]

Love the vids man

[@cam_hutch51]

So I completely jacked up my GPA cause I treated HS like a joke but I eventually want to get to either USNA or USAFA. I would be completely fine with going to the prep schools to work on earning my way into the academys.

[@cam_hutch51]

What would be the best way to get there? Enlisting first?

[@navalaviation]

@@cam_hutch51 Best way is to just finish out your hs on a good note, apply, and see what happens. If not offered anything, I would personally recommend maybe a year or two at a college or community college and then reapply after getting good grades there. If not that, yeah enlistment is an option but it'll be difficult for you to transfer.

[@cam_hutch51]

JC Thank you

[@crocgator3693]

Hello, I am currently in 10th Grade with no sports, but 4.0 unweighted GPA and 4.667 weighted GPA (AP Seminar, Calculus AB, Biology, and World History. Also got a 5 on AP Human Geography last year). In addition, I am currently in my first year of AFJROTC and in a drill team, and will hopefully be placed in a leadership position (probably not for drill team because I just joined the team) next year. I am currently volunteering at the local air museum once every week for seven hours. I also got a 92 on the AFQT when I took the ASVAB CEP, though I am fairly certain that the ASVAB CEP is not the same test as the full ASVAB. How would I look when applying to any of the service academies (mainly hoping for USAFA, West Point, or USNA), and does anybody have any tips on what I should improve on or how I can better my chances within the about 2.4 years of high school that I have left?

[@navalaviation]

You're looking pretty good. You don't need to take the ASVAB if you're trying to commission as an officer or go to an Academy

[@crocgator3693]

@@navalaviation Alright, thank you for the feedback. Will also incorporate advice from your video for improvement.

[@almoemason]

Your AFJROTC instructor will be quit in tune with all the current info. Most likely he will be a retired AF officer.

[@comrade313]

I’m currently 19 y/o Navy E-3 one math class shy of an AA. I enlisted in January of this year. Does anyone here know if being currently Active Duty enlisted in the Navy has an impact on admissions positive or negative?

[@ryan-mj6ts]

For sure positive. I believe you can compete for an active duty nomination in addition to your congressional rep, senators, & Vice President.

[@SaltiDawg2008]

I entered that way - I also was an E-3 (ETR-SN) Did not need to re-take College Boards, needed to re-take Physical and had received a Principle Appointment while on Active Duty. Graduated in 1965 and retired as a Submariner twenty years later.

[@runnerxa]

As long as you have good evaluations and in excellent physical fitness, not just passing the PRT. Minimal run time you have to pass is 9:30 mile and half run. Also make sure you are a decent swimmer otherwise you will need to train hard as a plebe to catch up to everyone else. You must meet the SAT/ACT standards, not waivable even if you are enlisted. You can get SECNAV nomination on active duty or from your senator/house of representative.

[@williamtrue6034]

Very positive

[@simba_5208]

I am in 9th grade I have all As, run cross country, run track, do NJROTC, wind ensemble, and marching band. It is almost guaranteed I will be in varsity cross country in later years and I aspire to be in a leadership position for marching band. What are my chanced of getting into USNA? Is there more I should be doing?

[@draterdiputs]

I just received my congressional nomination, and I'd recommend starting a club on something you're passionate about to show you take initiative and don't just work within the opportunities you're given. Also, getting a high sat, 1400+ will make you competitive for service academies.

[@williamtrue6034]

Start a club and do leadership outside of school like coaching young children

[@shoepotato234]

Yes, also find local charities and volunteer, the big thing is you want to fill up your summers, as well as your school year, so try to be doing another sport whether it's related to school or not

[@benjaminmateles1353]

I’m in 9th grade and part of the civil air patrol but I’m not in any sports. Will CAP be a reasonable substitute for athletics for my Naval Academy application?

[@theburgernoder2441]

It's more of a program/club then an athletic. Unless there's a PT/raiders team like JROTC.

[@williamtrue6034]

Do sports

[@benjaminmateles1353]

@@theburgernoder2441I mean for the leadership portion of doing sports, not the athletics.

[@benjaminmateles1353]

@@williamtrue6034I hate sports.

[@nikola6622]

@@benjaminmateles1353 Have you ever tried it? Just do track and do distance, I'm sure you can have some fun while improving your fitness. I used to hate sports when I was younger, but as a fellow 9th grader I'm getting more into it.

[@electrowolf6260]

I was not thinking straight when I started highschool, all the thought about in my head was enlisting after graduation. But now I’m a senior and it’s already too late for me to apply as a Highschooler. Do you think I can go to a senior military college, participate in an ROTC program (with or without a scholarship) and try to apply for the service academies?

[@SeanA099]

Here’s how you get in. Be an NCAA level athlete to get your spot locked in. Have some kind of legacy in the academies/ have a career military parent. Sometimes being from a rural area can be helpful with nominations. I’m sure you deserved your appointment, but it’s not a fair process

[@navalaviation]

I agree with you that recruited athletes have somewhat of an easier time with admissions. But as one of the few walk-on athletes at USNA, I can attest to the fairness of the process and how even recruited athletes need a certain bar in order to get admitted.

[@SeanA099]

JC I hope you can understand why I feel that way. Six people from my high school got into West Point and one to USNA. All of them had some combination of the factors I listed. I’m just saying that maybe they don’t always prioritize the right things when deciding who gets in

[@navalaviation]

@@SeanA099 I can definitely see where you're coming from. But trust the process. I remind myself that USNA, in addition to a naval installation, is also a NCAA Division 1 School that not only breeds officers but winners and athletic studs. The athletic atmosphere of competitiveness only makes USNA a better, more lively, and successful school. And I mean it when I say that I see these athletic studs become some of the best navy seals or marine corp officers or any other type of officer than if USNA had just chosen people by merit or military background.

[@aadipillai5530]

Do the recommendation letters for the congressional nomination and the actual academy need to be different?

[@colecastillo4100]

I got into USNA, USAFA, and West Point summer seminars/sle and now they’re cancelled :/

[@navalaviation]

I'm sorry but just the fact that you got into all of them means that they're interested in you. Don't feel down!

[@saman-ky6uf]

Same here. Session 3 squad ✊🏼😓

[@keirabucher6434]

I'm doing a full IB Diploma but that's all Junior/Senior year, with obligated community service and everything, as someone who's not confident in their SAT/ACT abilities and might not take them until next year should I wait an apply later or try to take the SAT/ACT tests early and try to figure something out with a Blue and Gold officer?

[@legendary_eman]

Is it true that the USNA is a stem school? and every midshipmen is required to take some type of calculus or physics regardless of their major? @JC

[@navalaviation]

Yes that is true

[@legendary_eman]

@@navalaviation I was just trying to make sure. Thank you sir.

[@navalaviation]

@Jagroop Khosa You're falling behind a little but you still have a lit of time to fix it. Make sure to get straight A's this next year and senior year to show the Academies you are ready!

[@navalaviation]

@Jagroop Khosa You can most definitely take one over senior year and the Academy will definitely take it into consideration.

[@navalaviation]

@Jagroop Khosa Ye s! They will most definitely care. Your 1st semester grades should show up for USNA in your transcript. when they're making selections. And they will also consider what you take in the 2nd semester too.

[@sst8564]

Hi, I don’t know if you’ll see this. I’m a junior this year, and I was wondering if you had any information, or links to summer camps for the Naval and or Air Force academy, if you could direct me toward one?

[@navalaviation]

All the Academies have their summer seminar applications on their online website. It’s either called summer seminar or summer leaders experience. Go google it and apply on their website

[@smogzclan7500]

Do you know about how the admissions process differs for athletes? I know that almost everyone applying plays sports, but I more so mean the ones who have the opportunity to commit to play their sport at the academy. For example, I know that a good amount of the Naval baseball team verbally committed to play at the academy during their junior year. How does committing change your admissions process? Thanks!

[@navalaviation]

I didn't really talk about it as much because it should theoretically be the same. However, realistically recruitment gives a huge boost to a candidate to a pretty high percentage of acceptance. Athletes won't get recruited unless they're in good academic standing in high school first. The Academies do happen to favor recruited athletes in terms of getting a congressional nomination and letters of appointment in my experience. Much better chances than if you are not a recruited athlete. But this does nottake away from the GPA and test score requirements a candidate must have to being considered to be at the Academy. Hope this helps

[@cologne_nemo]

This is my dream school. I feel like I don’t reach any of the requirements. This sucks

[@santamonicawyb1243]

Bruh! That is literally me

[@kuriaak]

hey mate, I felt the same way as you when i applied. my advice is, if you don't feel you meet the standards or aren't exceptional in certain areas, then diversify. join a couple different sports and become proficient. you don't have to be exceptional, being alright is, well, alright. I did track, soccer, and swimming during high school and I was mediocre at best in all of them. I only lettered in swimming for 1 event! join multiple clubs and participate, take up a leadership position in the one you like the best. if you don't get a leadership position, that's alright. I did 5 in school clubs and 3 out of school clubs, only got a leadership position in 1. most were very low maintenance clubs, only meeting once a month. you don't need to spend your whole high school life doing extracurricular, make sure you still have time to game on the weekend and do a hobby (I bike a shit ton). make sure you like your extracurriculars, I was interested in them so spending my time there was fun. only do things you enjoy or else it's gonna feel like a chore, I can't stress this enough. don't feel like you HAVE to do a certain thing in order to look good for the Academy. I hated Student Council so I never did it even though everyone said "it's the best for the Academy." challange yourself to take advanced classes, whether they be AP, IB, or honours classes even if you think it's out of your league. I was TERRIBLE at English but I ended up taking AP Literature and Composition and passing with a B-, improving my reading and writing skills and having some fun even though it was a struggle. one thing I was told was good grades are good, but it's the challenge you put yourself through that will impress. obviously, you shouldn't be failing classes, but if you feel comfortable doing so, take as many AP or advanced classes as you can manage. BUT only do the ones you feel interested in. lack of interest will kill your grades lol. I took 2 honours classes, 8 AP classes, and 10 AP tests and i averaged a B and had a 3.2 GPA, 3.5 weighted. I thought that would ruin my chances but apparently not lol. ACTs and SATs are also another thing people say need to be exceptionally high too. this isn't necessarily the case, BUT these are by far yhe easiest things you can improve fast. I got a 33 ACT, 34 superscore, and a 1410 SAT. the only way you'll get better at this is practice (if you have the money). i took the ACT 5 times from 9th grade until 12th and the SAT 3 times. do the practice tests if you really want to improve, they help lol. also, for USNA, Math and English are the too most important sections, prioritize highs scores in those. leadership is just something you have to put yourself into and get good at. don't be discouraged if you don't become a captain of a team or club, there are other ways to be a leader. for example, I front make captain of my swim team but I made it my goal to be a leader for the underclassmen and also during drylands. for community service, look for some easy volunteer work you can do such as soup kitchens or shopping for older people or people with disabilities. something simple will do the trick, you don't have to spend hours volunteering, just do a couple of activities you think are fun. the biggest thing the Academy is looking for in their applicants isn't just grades or ACTs or SATs or excellency in sports, they are looking for students who are diverse in skills and leadership. if you are lacking in one area, whether it be sports or extracurriculars or academics, make up for it in another area. I whole heartedly believe that you can get in and I dont even know you! trust me, i felt the same way you did 3 years ago but I made it, so why can't you! I don't know if any of this advice will help you or even applies to you but I really hope this helps.

[@kuriaak]

feel free to reach out to me on Instagram @akkuria

[@cologne_nemo]

@@kuriaak hey man thanks for the advice. I read through all of it and there is one slight inconvenience. I’m a senior in highschool and I’ve never done the best and haven’t really done things to support the school system. So I never really tried to go above and beyond other than more my science and math classes because I want to be a future engineer. One thing I did was enlist into the Navy to get my future set. I may not have been able to join the academy for my intellectual ability, but I enlisted to get a jumpstart on my future. Again, thank you

[@kuriaak]

@@cologne_nemo hey, that's alright man. big props to you for enlisting my guy. just so you know, if you still want it, your dream to attend the Academy doesn't have to be over yet. you have until the age of 23 to get in. if this is the case, keep working hard while you're serving, impress your NCO's, and express your interest in attending the Academy. apply next year or the year after that, whenever you feel comfortable, and you can get a nomination from your CO (if i remember correctly). prior enlistees make up a sizable portion of the Academy's classes. if your academics are lacking, but you look good in other aspects, they might send you to NAPS then you'll be transfered to the Academy when you meet academic requirements. you still got this brother, fight on!

[@rafaelrobles2688]

yo living on mexico hits diferent when you tryna get into this school

[@DangLao06]

Case study request: 1420 sat, musician in the Seattle youth symphony, by the time high school is over will take 15 IB classes, class officer at school, by end of 10th grade will be fluent in Chinese , competitive swimmer, competitive chess player, and in gifted program. I am a ninth grader now but what are my chances of getting in in a few years? Edit: and how could I improve my chances.

[@alecrehagen2021]

As everyone would say, no one can guess your chances. But your resume is strong, my tip is to get leadership positions in those clubs and sports as the years go on. Try to get Team Captain in swim and chess(if they have one idk anything about competitive chess). Right now, in ninth grade just build up your resume as best as possible and don’t worry about the application till junior senior year. P.S u already have a 1420 SAT in 9th grade which is great, over time try to just take a couple more tests to see if you can increase your score. Also if u want take the ACT some ppl do better on that then the SAT( like me).

[@DangLao06]

@@alecrehagen2021 thank you

[@avaneeshbenki8266]

U finna get in easily

[@SpooderOfficial]

Did you get in bro?

[@badalsanjana]

did u get in?

[@splats6164]

So is everyone required to participate in a sport at the academy?

[@navalaviation]

Yes

[@joeloel9523]

I got accepted into the naval academy summer seminar but the cancelled it because of the Corona Virus. Do you think I should still put it on my resume? Great Video btw

[@navalaviation]

Yes put it in your resume

[@jeffreyepstien9205]

I mean idk if ur gonna even see this buttt lemme list some of my stats. I’m trying to get into USMMA and I’m a junior. I have a 4.0 but probably a 3.8 in all of my highschool year. I will be on varsity XC, indoor and outdoor track for about 3 years. I will 95% be the captain next year for XC. Indoor and outdoor don’t have captains. I also am a 4 year band student and am the VP of the financial club. I was in a bunch of clubs sophomore year(model UN, chess club, ski club, political club etc) but most got shut down due to covid. Act scores are around like a 27. I go to one of the best public schools in like the country so I’m not worried about my grades and such. They won’t even let us have our class ranks lol. I also do a lot of volunteering and such. I am the coach of a youth lacrosse program. Also lifeguard over the summer. Is there anything else I should be doing to get accepted???

[@jeffreyepstien9205]

Also we have a couple state sectional titles and league wins for XC. I could be one of the best on the team if I were to be accepted.

[@navalaviation]

You sound pretty set but your test scores seem a bit low. I would aim to retake the ACT or SAT again to get a better score. You should aim for at least a 30 on ACT and 1400 on SAT

[@selahattinkaskc8668]

@Kathleen McCafferty for class of 2025 ?

[@beauwilliams9054]

Your name is pretty rough

[@jeffreyepstien9205]

@Kathleen McCafferty ahhhh congrats!!!! It’s such a great school

[@Niyahn33]

Can being in naval sea cadets go on your resume I want to be a combat pilot engineer or see bee.

[@navalaviation]

Definitely!

[@SpartaMcManaman]

If I have 3 years (almost 4) of Air Force JROTC is that ALSO going to look good on USNA applications?

[@navalaviation]

That'll look great

[@SpartaMcManaman]

@@navalaviation Thanks.

[@simba_5208]

If I participate in my high school’s NJROTC, marching band, cross country, and track and field would that help my chances

[@eaglex.thomaston182]

yes, NJROTC shows interest in joining the military and shows them that you already have some skills and knowledge concerning military life, and as for your athletics/band they are helpful but it is best that you try to go for leadership, such as team captain for xc or drum major/section leader in band. The academies love leadership and having that on your resume and essay proves to them that you have what it takes to be a leader in the military

[@GrizzlyAir]

Some of this is inaccurate. A good GPA is not enough. You also need to take the most challenging courses your high school offers. Don’t think that taking a bunch of soft classes with good grades is enough. You’re better off with a B in a AP class than stuffing your record with cheese classes. Also the Academy will also super score the ACT as well.

[@penitusoculatusagent8725]

Not true

[@nickw8248]

Any advice for a college re-applicant? I’m going Virginia Tech on an NROTC scholarship but USNA has always been my #1.

[@navalaviation]

I plan to make a video about it soon! But in short, definitely recommend to reapply! Belive it or not, you have a higher chance of getting in after the second or third time. See a bunch of cases like that at the Academy! No real further advice besides just making sure your application is squared away and don't take your foot off the pedal at Virginia Tech! Good luck!

[@lulabylivesinmackay]

So useful information. I've saved your tips for my 2 yd. ;p

[@dr4gongirl434]

I want to go to the naval academy after hs but I’m trying to decide which hs would help me get into the naval academy. They both have the same music and sports that I would join but hs 1 has JROTC and avid while hs 2 is a magnet school and also has dance. I was wondering if they would both be the same or if one of the hs would be better to help me get in. I was originally gonna go to hs 2 but they are getting ride of their JROTC program so now idk which one would be better. Also, when making a resume would I be able to put down things that I’ve done outside of school?

[@TheBobsteg]

If youre academically fit go to magnet school. JROTC gets rated the same as every other activity its about the leadership role within. If you do well at a magnet school versus a regular school, however you will get more points for your application.

[@Dirigo17]

JROTC will NOT make you any better of a Midshipman than those who didn’t do it. Plebe Summer puts everyone on an equal playing field and you come out of those 7 weeks knowing what you need to know to be successful. Get involved with clubs you like and can help you develop as a leader, JROTC certainly is a good option to that end.

[@rmg.777]

Hi JC, I was wondering what the minimum requirements for the CFA scores. Can you tell me the what they are? Even though I am in 7th grade, I don't want to be last minute when applying.

[@navalaviation]

Unfortuantely, I am only aware of the maximum scores of the academies. I don't believe there is a minimum for any of these scores because this is meant to test your strength and fitness rather than just encourage students to just meet a bar standard. I'm sure you can fin some more information online but in short, I have no idea what the minimums are. Here's the link to West Point's CFA information : s3.amazonaws.com/usma-media/inline-images/admissions/PDFs/CFAInstructions_0.pdf

[@rmg.777]

Thank you for the response though!

[@calebkim2275]

Hey man great video! I'm a rising senior and I have a 4.2 weighted gpa and a 1400 on my sat. I'm also team captain for my tennis team for 2 years, I am a officer at 2 of my clubs, I help kids with autism in my community and I racked up like 600 total hours. I also teach teens with special needs how to play tennis one on one. I also served my church by being a praise leader and playing the guitar as well as helping kids during weekdays for church activities. I also got a 750 on my us history on my subject test and a 740 on my subject 2 math test. What do u think my chances are for usna, usafa, and uscga? Thanks!

[@navalaviation]

Sorry but I can't really gauge what your chances are because it's just not my decision to make. But I'd say you're on track.

[@calebkim2275]

@@navalaviation thanks bro

[@narutoisstrongerthansasuke3326]

dang...u are probably gonna get in😭

[@calebkim2275]

@@narutoisstrongerthansasuke3326 na bro I live in California and I heard it's pretty hard to get in from my area

[@narutoisstrongerthansasuke3326]

walnut ash really? i didn’t know it depends on where you live as well...i live in georgia though

[@chill1135]

Do I have to play a sport to get in? I’m ok with doing it in the naval academy but in high school??

[@eaglex.thomaston182]

While sports aren't strictly mandatory to get it, you do have to participate in a sport while you're there. That being said, it is heavily recommended to be in a sport, especially a varsity sport and a leadership position in that sport.

[@ar-1571]

@@eaglex.thomaston182 I swim, but I haven’t in a long time, will I still be able to do it?

[@ryan-mj6ts]

Sports especially varsity sports increase your chances for admission greatly. It shows you’re able to work in a team environment & your athletic ability. If not sports, the debate team or band are also alternatives.

[@lovechris3732]

I played a sport but JV, how does that fair for me?

[@RomanianPizzaGuy]

In your opinion if I did good on everything on the CFA EXCEPT for the Basketball throw, would that be that major?

[@alexandersaber2058]

Any advice for Plebe Summer?

[@navalaviation]

Treat everything like it's a game. Don't take anything to heart and just play along with the program! It'll be over sooner than you know it

[@alexandersaber2058]

@@navalaviation aye aye, thank you man

[@zhengdong3004]

dang go off justin 💯

[@mckennagueary460]

I am homeschool and a rising senior, my mother teaches me most of my subjects. Even though she is my mom, can she give me letters of recommendation s? I also want to study weapons, robotics, and control engineering.

[@navalaviation]

You're gonna have to ask admissions office about that one. I personally have no idea about homeschoolers. Sorry

[@deca0]

Just graduated high school, never did any of the standardized colledgeboard tests, and couldn’t participate in sports due to covid in 10th grade and moving to independent studies in 11th-12th… I’m a clown thinking I can get into the naval academy

[@Ruqkio]

You're not, have faith in yourself

[@EnabIing]

Just do ROTC

[@TreeBarkSide]

Theres always ROTC. You can still graduate as an officer in the military.

[@alphyy3304]

Does JROTC help? And also, how do you work your way up into leadership positions in clubs and sports?

[@navalaviation]

JROTC definitely helps as it looks good on the application. You can work your way up by first joining a club and then asking the current officers of that club on how to get involved more and serve as an officer. For most sports, you just have to get good and then get selected by your coach or your team.

[@alphyy3304]

@@navalaviation Thank you!

[@ar-1571]

Quick question: I did not take any SATS/ACTS because I was class of 2020 due to the pandemic. Is that a legal excuse as to WHY I didn’t take any of those tests?

[@robbybroggi7924]

How am I supposed to do clubs if I play school sports year round

[@navalaviation]

Clubs during lunch or after school. Maybe on sundays when you got no practices going. I was able to fit it in with sports year round. You just have to commit yourself to them. But grades should take priority.

[@chicago618]

Love these videos even though I only watch them for entertainment. I love the fact I can watch what you do stress free knowing I don’t have to do any of that. Im kind of unmotivated like that. In high school I had to pay someone to do my geometry final assignment because I had no clue. Wasn’t proud but wasn’t ashamed either. Yeah, I’m pretty sure I wasn’t what the Naval Academy was looking for. Although I did hear that there was a cheating scandal at your school last year I think. So who knows, maybe I would have been a perfect fit. Anyway I wish you the best. Good luck and remember, loose lips sink ships. Don’t know what that heck means but I imagine it’s important. You’re a good man. Also, you misspelled “alternative” 6:05.

[@sydneyyy420]

it's the end of 10th grade... i want apply to the usafa. my current gpa sucks (about a 3.7) and i didn't do much volunteer work. i'm planning on learning boxing and getting a tutoring job this summer, but i'm scared it's too late. i can swim but am not in any teams ( i am not in any sports teams or anything). am i cooked??? please give tips if anyone has any. i'm willing to do whatever it takes, but it might just be too late

[@ChukedIII]

Sydney, you are doing great! 3.7 is great, but you need to stand out among your peers... do more volunteers and participate in anything you can, especially potentially going abroad to a different country! If you reach senior year and still can't get in you should enlist in the Air Force Reserve as I believe the academies have slots for enlisted active and reserve members

[@sanchooDevs]

A good sat/act score would save you

[@iiikeiraiii4516]

I am an eighth-grader going into my freshman year of high school and I have been put into honors Language Arts and Social Studies classes and they are deciding on my math and science classes, can being in honors classes help me get into an academy? I am also in the BETA club and I will be in a weightlifting class for softball and archery. I also will be taking sophomore-level Spanish classes in my freshman year and in my sophomore year, I will be taking a law enforcement class. Will any of these things help me? And what else can I do to improve my chance of getting in? Also great video it really has helped me understand some things I can do.

[@Steelers6173]

iiikeiraiii keep up the good grades, stay out of trouble and stay active in sports/clubs

[@navalaviation]

It sounds like you're on track. Yes honors classes will help you but make sure to just keep on getting good grades and making the most of each opportunity.

[@porterj4154]

For our nomination can we use our aunts and uncles in the military for it?

[@alexandersaber2058]

i dont think so, only parents

[@navalaviation]

I do not believe so but I'm not that familiar with it. Definitely look into it a bit more but from my experience, only the sources I mentioned are viable.

[@korsairex35]

Hi JC, I was wondering which you think looks better for the service academies, taking all college classes at a university near me or take only a few and participate in a robotics program?

[@navalaviation]

Id say wherever can give you a more successful portfolio and the place where you can succeed the best.

[@korsairex35]

@@navalaviation Well, I'd say I'd succeed more at the college because it'd be things I am good at (Social Sciences and Humanities) but I was thinking the program might be better for showing you are a bit more of a diverse applicant. Thank you!

[@XYZ-nh2uf]

Do you know how transfer applications work for the Naval Academy?

[@navalaviation]

Mostly the same as the normal application. Start the online application and plug in your information. Same procedures

[@XYZ-nh2uf]

@@navalaviation Sounds good, thanks for the quick response

[@johnallen2878]

Keep in mind -- it's not a "transfer" in the sense that you retain your class year (IE> Frosh, Soph, Jr., Sr.) -- you start back as a Plebe/Frosh. You may be able to validate out of more classes than those folks coming right out of high school, and be able to either take more advanced classes or a reduced class load, but you will still be a Plebe.

[@navalaviation]

@@johnallen2878 Yes, thank you for clarifying that

[@joelramos9953]

Currently I’m a sophomore in highschool, I have a 3.3 gpa, in the drill, wrestling and tennis team and very involved in jrotc, and I have around 90 hours of community service.Haven’t taken SAT. What should I work on ?

[@navalaviation]

I'd say you're looking oretty good in extracurriculars and sports. Just study up for the SAT and work on your GPA in these next two years

[@joelramos9953]

JC thanks bro, will do!

[@SpooderOfficial]

I know its been four years, but did you get in?

[@tortilla7122]

Hey im about to go into my freshman year and i was looking for your opinion when the time comes should i submit an application to the US Naval Academy to commission into the Marines or do a NROTC progam at a college i love. Also what would be key differences between the two? And if i enlist first can i still go to USNA or do NRTOC? I also play hockey, i have decent grades right now but im really trying to get them up what would some courses that you think could really help me? Also this is a question i have really been confused with but when an officer get stationed at a location do they stay there for their whole contract or can can they get stationed somewhere else? Also can i play a sport while doing NROTC? I really appreciate if you read all of this.

[@josephdecarlo4869]

I can't answer most of this as I'm still in highschool myself, but ROTC in college and the Naval Academy are very different experiences. The main reason I would like to attend USNA or any of the other service academies is due to the inability for me to play any sports while at their schools. However, USNA has the sports built into your program so you're able to play if you can get recruit or walk on to the team. It is not set in stone that you won't be able to do a sport and ROTC, but of all the colleges I've toured and visited in Georgia, not a single one of the cadets in any ROTC program did an official sport for the school. This means that they participated in club sports, but did not participate for NCAA level events.

[@tortilla7122]

Joseph Joseph thanks I appreciate your response.

[@josephdecarlo4869]

@@tortilla7122 Oops I just realized how badly I mistyped that response! I meant to say I want to go to a service academy for the sports programs, sorry for the inconvenience :)

[@tortilla7122]

Joseph Joseph It’s fine I do it to.

[@kyled8074]

What if you don’t do sports or performing arts?

[@navalaviation]

I definitely recommend joining one. If not, totally fine. Just kill the CFA

[@kyled8074]

JC thx for your response. I’m going to try to join a sport this year but idk because of the pandemic.

[@tommydunn4239]

Yeah.. i’m kind of in the same boat as you, being a rising junior. my goal is to join track but idk what will happen if it gets canceled. maybe club or private sports?

[@tommydunn4239]

What leadership or volunteering did you do to get in. This is the only thing I am really worried about. I am a rising junior btw

[@navalaviation]

So I was a captain for the varsity swim adn water polo teams at my high school during my Junior and Senior years. I was a founder and president of two clubs and was on the officer board for another 3 at my high school. I volunteered a lot at the local pet shelter, my church as a sunday school teacher, and also a high school ministry student body. Now I did a lot more than these but these are what I was primarily known for in high school and most of them came out of just being interested in something I enjoyed and just did it. IT really isn't as difficult as it appears to be. For example, I loved pets but my parents wouldn't let me have one so I resolved to just walking dogs at the local pet shelter. I love kids and seeing them debate one another so I volunteered at my high school's debate coaching program for younger kids. Things like this should come out of things that you're already interested in. Hope this helps