<p>hey,</p>
<p>Everyone seems to know a lot about the school and admission process. I was wondering if you could help me. I'm going to be a junior in high school this september and I know that USNA is my ultimate goal. My freshman yr. I had a gpa of 3.5 and struggled this soph yr. with a 3.1. However I am 100% positive I can pull a 3.9 or 4.0 my jr year because I haven't been pushing myself and i know what i'm capable of. I am loaded with extracurricular activities and volunteer work and am very athletic running on the track and xc teams full time. I just wanted to know whether you think my chances are legit. And also what time would be good to submit my prelim application. I was thinking on waiting till after the first quarter so I can have top grades on the application. </p>
<p>thanks</p>
<p>You can't chose when to submit the prelim.</p>
<p>The first step for you is the USNA Summer Seminar application which is basically a prelim. Apply for that the first day you can. Last year that was february 1st.</p>
<p>thanks yea im definantly going to apply for the summer seminar
so when does the prelim go in then?</p>
<p>I know if you apply and get accepted to summer seminar that is your prelim and you won't have to fill out another one.</p>
<p>And I think even if you get turned down from going to summer seminar you don't have to fill out another prelim, but I'm not sure on that part.</p>
<p>Yes only a small percentage of those who apply for the summer seminar are accepted...this doesn't preclude you from continuing on with your application...if you are deemed worthy, the academy will send you a complete application package...they will evaluate your credentials based on your initial application and determine if you are an "official candidate." They will then set you up for a DODMERB physical and send you a ton of paperwork you will need to fill out. You also have to apply to your congressman or senator for an appointment. So early next year is good for you to get this started. Good luck...it's a daunting process.</p>
<p>when is a good time for applying to your congress representative or senator</p>
<p>I would say late in your junior year, right after you send the prelim app in...this is a very involved process so the earlier the better but not too early or you'll get lost in the shuffle. Check with your rep. and senator...they all have slightly different procedures.</p>
<p>Also, you will be taking the PSAT this fall. The scores are an important criteria for admission into any of the academy summer programs. You have plenty of time to begin your prep for the exam, so I'd suggest making that an early goal.</p>