Alternate nomination sources are available. To have basic eligibility for admission, candidates must be citizens of the U.S., of good moral character, at least 17 and not more than 23 years of age on July 1 of their entering year, unmarried, not pregnant, and without legal obligation to dependents. Tuition, board, lodging, and medical and dental care are provided. Upon being commissioned as an ensign in the navy or a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps, the commitment is at least five years' active duty. Aviation service commitment depends upon type of aircraft and whether you are a pilot or naval flight officer.
Most aviators serve seven years after they complete their initial flight training.
The bill establishing the U.S. Air Force Academy was signed by President Eisenhower on April 1, 1954. The Cadet Wing moved into the academy's permanent home north of Colorado Springs, Colo., in 1958. Cadets receive four years of academic, military, and physical education to prepare them for leadership as officers in the air force. The academy is authorized to enroll a total of 4,000 male and female cadets. Each new class averages 1,200.