It begins with the first of several applications. Cadets have to be nominated by a congressional member. Congressional members annually have five slots and can make 10 recommendations for each. Before making a recommendation, congressional offices consider a student's high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores and leadership or extracurricular activities. The average composite ACT score for cadets is 28, the academy's admissions counselor for Nebraska said.
Applicants also meet with a liaison officer from the academy for an interview.
Applicants must be single with no dependents and between the ages of 17 and 23. They must take a candidate fitness test. There also are strict medical standards. The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board looks at the complete medical history of candidates. Respiratory illnesses in particular can hinder an applicant's chances, because of the high altitude.