<p>Hello, I am currently a Junior at a Prep High School. My GPA is 3.91 an am taking 4 honors/AP classes. I am part of the Cross Country team and a few clubs. What should i do to maximize my chances for getting in to USNA. Also, is the CFA something to take seriously or simply a pass or fail type of thing. This whole thing has really got me worried (as it does to most people) and I want to know how i can maximize my chances for admission. ANY FEEDBACK IS APPRECIATED</p>
<p>Study for and do well on the SAT/ACT.</p>
<p>Are those AP classes in math and science? If not, consider them. On a similar note: are you taking the most challenging classes your school offers?</p>
<p>Being “part of a few clubs” is not the same as being dedicated to one.</p>
<p>Be able to show “Leadership” through some activity.</p>
<p>Be ready to answer these two questions:</p>
<p>Why do you want to attend the USNA?
What do you bring to the USNA that would make your MOC nominate you over other equally qualified candidates?</p>
<p>Doing very well on the CFA will be noticed but I doubt it will overcome a deficiency in some other area.</p>
<p>Its a tough battle but if its your passion I’m sure that will come through and you’ll get to join the class of 2016. Good luck.</p>
<p>I was at a college fair the other day representing NA. It is interesting that the SAME recommendations that OSDAD makes are the same questions that we [BGOs] asked of those who came before us asking about admission.</p>
<p>Here’s the secret to admission:</p>
<p>Do well on teh SAT/ACT
Demonstrate leadership in your activities
Excellent grades in AP classes</p>
<p>Finally, be able to answer the two questions OSDAD poses. [My own pet peeve is that you be able to answer with something other than “I want to serve my country.” but that’s just me.]</p>
<p>mike,</p>
<p>I graduated from west point a few years back, but I am sure the criteria are similiar. I would echo every said below. To prepare for the interview I had my high school guidance staff assemble a group of teachers familiar with the service academies to conduct a few monk interviews. Like anything else you want to do well on, you need to practice. These monk interviews will pay off for the congressional and MALO interviews. Also, get in tight with your MALO. If you have not contacted your local MALO do that now! Builiding that realtionship years before you formally apply will work in your favor. In additon to the MALO, get in contact with your congressional representative staff. They play a huge role in the interview process. I was provided with a list of persons who would be on the interview board and I was able to research each one and what their backgrounds were. Also, congress members usually hold academy days/fundraisers in your area. Going to these events allows your face and name to be a familiar one and not just another kid applying. Outside of academics and leadership, I found that networking with old grads (especially ones who donate $$$), the MALO, and the congressional staff eases the process. Good luck.</p>