<p>I submitted my preliminary application today and was wondering how long it takes to receive the candidate packet in the mail if I qualify? Also, how hard is it to secure a nomination? Thanks. Sorry if these are dumb questions but I'm pretty new to the process.</p>
<p>I cant comment on the preliminary application part because I dont think they had that when I went through the application process. However, I can comment on the nomination part. The nomination didnt seem to be difficult to obtain, but it was another series of hoops to jump through. I applied to my Congressman and both Senators and each had a different application packet that included multiple essays each. After they reviewed my package, they’ll call you up for an interview. The interview wasn’t particularly challenging, they just asked really the obvious questions about who you are and why you want to go to the academy. A few months later, my Congressman called me right after the Army Navy game and told me congratulations. The entire process from application until final acceptance took from July to December, so be prepared for a long wait.</p>
<p>Just curious…but it seems to be rather late to be starting the preliminary process…I remember my son applied as soon as the process started a year ago in April when he was a high school junior. By this time last year, as a senior, he was pretty much done with the entire process, BGO interview, and I know that a year ago several candidates were already receiving LOA’s in September, although our son did not receive an appointment until February. I don’t remember how long it took to get his candidate number and preliminary packet. However be prepared that a majority of the candidates are already through the process and waiting to get news if they have qualified medically, scholastically,etc. Did you contact the admissions department at the USNA? Keep us posted as to what you find out and good luck! The waiting has just begun!</p>
<p>To add on to what the above posters have said; before starting your USNA application (and essays) make sure you have checked each of your MOC websites (Congressman, both Senators) and determine when the deadline is for their nomination applications. That date is usually substantially earlier (October) than the USNA. That said, you are playing catch-up with many (most?) other applicants and the sooner you complete your USNA & nomination applications the sooner you will be considered for admission. Good Luck!</p>