CFA Scores

Colleges and Universities A-Z Military Academy - West Point
1

Last summer, an adult mentioned to me that I should look at USMA. I decided to do some more research, and now USMA is my top choice and I am preparing for the SLE in about 2 weeks.

I practiced the CFA and got the following scores:
BB Throw: 66’8"
Pull Ups: 7
Shuttle Run: 9.2
Sit Ups: 75
Push Ups: 40
Mile: 5:35

Clearly, I am not the strongest upper-body candidate (I run XC and track though). However, based on my academics and other activities, my Field Force Representative is sure I will receive an LOA if I can pass the CFA, which is my goal.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to improve my scores (specifically push ups) before I take the test? I understand I only have a few days, but if anyone has any tips on how to get a few points higher I would greatly appreciate it!

2

I’m the father of a lad going to SLE Session 1, and NOT an expert on admissions, but I’ve done a lot of research on this stuff, so here’s my suggestions.

Yout B-Ball Throw is only a little bit below average. If you can squeeze out another 5’ - 10’ you will be slightly above average. Watch this video for pointers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LiaGbtE_Ao

You can probably add 3 - 5 reps to your pull-ups in two weeks if you push yourself and work on technique. Other than doing lots of extra pull-ups you should also try doing reverse pull-ups (negatives). Watch this video for pointers on technique: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9rHmwWkDnI

Wath this video on the shuttle run, this technique might shave a second or two off of your time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nns35rbgMNo

Watch this video for push-up technique. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUVCkVwDLTw

Overall I’d say that your numbers aren’t bad, especially your mile run which is outstanding. If you focus on modifying your technique where it’s needed and add a few reps to your pull-ups, then I think you’ll do really well.

3

Might be better to name your son in a PM to the OP rather than to the Internet, @Johnny-Neutron1970. Perhaps a mod can edit your post.

4

MODERATOR’S NOTE:

The mod already did.

A reminder that the website is called College Confidential.

5

OK. I’m sorry about that. I certainly didn’t mean to offend anyone or violate any rules of usage.

6

The videos definitely helped; thank you! I’ll update in a few days with the results, but at the very least I feel more confident going into the test.

7

Hope all went well with your CFA.

My DD did hers in a couple days ago at SLE and did well. The video on the basketball throw helped a lot. The pervasive problem it seem during the CFA is kids had a hard time with the basketball so many (including my DD) had throws less than what they were doing while practicing.

8

I just returned from SLE today as well. All the videos definitely helped, as I was able to pass!

I heard from many of the CCs (Cadet Candidates) at the SLE that the basketball throw was what held many people back from passing, so thank you for the helpful technique.

Best of luck to both your CCs @Johnny-Neutron1970 and @ChicagoSportsFn in their USMA admissions process. I hope that they enjoyed SLE as much as I did!