<p>Does anyone know if an appointment to West Point can be deferred to the following year in order to have a gap year experience? If the answer is no, and one reapplied after declining an appointment, would that affect the chances for re-nomination and appointment the following year?</p>
<p>If you received an appointment to West Point- congrats! If you were not ready they would have sent you to USMAPS- the Prep School…that would mean it would take you 5 instead of 4 years to graduate. I don’t know the answer to your question- check with the admissions…but I would strongly recommend that you do not do that. Do not doubt yourself…it is hard enough getting in…if you decline your appointment, you can reapply I believe…but you do not know how more stiff the competition will be the following year. Whatever you decide, please make an informed decision by contacting the directorate of admissions to find out what your options are and then make your decision promptly…reason is if you decline your appointment- then others who were nominated on the merit list are waiting to take that appointment. Good luck…</p>