The total figure attempts to account for some of their travel, telephone, and care packages throughout the school year. For the first 4 weeks all new cadets are in the basic orientation phase. Cadets must earn eligibility for a pass based on grades, and discipline. Cadets who are over demerits, on academic restriction, or on punishment orders will not be eligible. Special leaves can be arranged through the Commandant's Office in the event of medical or family emergencies.
Cadets can fly out of Birmingham or Atlanta.
The Military Department assigns roommates based on grade, age and size. The Academy has three Promotion Boards each year. Cadets are assessed for promotion based on their grades, their disciplinary standing, and their attitude. Additional factors include the position and rank available at that time. Then we assign him to the Campus Beautification Club, give him a bush axe and a machete, and he chops briars and brambles while wading through poison ivy for several days until he figures out what he wants to do.