| CARVIEW |
By now, you’ve finished your Congressional Interview, maybe even your B&G Interview. You’ve attended or are preparing for a Candidate Weekend Visit. You likely have all pieces submitted for your application.
Important military and patriotic days:
- Desert Storm (Persian Gulf) Began — January 16 (1991)
- Vietnam Peace Day – January 27
- Panama Campaign Ended — January 31 (1990)
- SWO Ship Selection
Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:
January To Do List for USNA Applicants
More articles worth reading:
- Headed for USNA? Prepare Yourself–Freshman Year HS
- Headed for USNA? Prepare Yourself Sophomore Year HS
- Want to Attend USNA? Prepare Yourself Junior Year HS
- Headed for USNA? Prepare Yourself–Senior Year
- 5 Critical Skills to Accomplish During High School
- How to solve problems
- How to manage your time
- How to prioritize
- How to get along with people
- How to think
- 10 Great Books (plus 3) to Read Before You Become a Midshipman
- Talk Like an Ivy Leaguer
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:
First Steps:
If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.
Here’s a good book to get you started:
Building a Midshipman
From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy as their college of choice.
Seniors–Check for Letter of Assurance
Few get them. Most candidates get an Offer of Appointment without a LOA. Don’t think too much about it, but if you get one, cheer.
Seniors–follow up on Blue-and-Gold Interview
The Blue and Gold Interview is by your BGO. It allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to ensure that they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending on the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your BGO ‘likes’ you. It’s his job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.
Frosh/Soph: To find your Blue and Gold Officer Area Coordinator, click here.
Seniors–Apply for a Candidate Weekend Visit
Even if you’ve already received your offer, attend this exciting weekend. You’ll get to see the Yard, visit Mids, ask more questions, see how the academics work. It’ll help you decide if you’re not sure, or clinch your decision to attend.
Seniors–DodMETS
This should be done. If you required a DodMETS waiver, follow up. Make sure it comes through. A good rule is to do everything you can until the ball is in someone else’s court so to speak. Don’t expect a waiver to happen without lots of personal attention.
Click here for background on DodMETS.
Seniors–get the CFA done
If you didn’t pass CFA during Summer Seminar, or didn’t attend that event, arrange for your high school gym coach or someone else you trust to administer the full exam. If you don’t pass, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared.
For information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, click here and then here.
Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application
Check the binder you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you’ve sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your BGO. In fact, stay in close touch with your BGO at this stage in your process. He’ll be passing his recommendation on to the Admittance board.
Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.
Seniors–follow up on the Letters of Recommendation from teachers
Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.
Seniors–Congressional Interview
Follow up on your Congressional Interview.
Seniors–Accepted? Get a Passport
You’ll need one eventually, and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.
Juniors–Apply for Summer Seminar
Applications open January 3rd. From the USNA page:
If you are currently in your junior year of high school and considering the Naval Academy as your college of choice, we strongly recommend you consider applying to Summer Seminar. Summer Seminar will introduce you to life at the Academy, where you will experience first-class academic, athletic, and professional training. Your Summer Seminar application will also serve as a preliminary application to the Academy that you will complete before or during your senior year.
You will live in Bancroft Hall, experience life on The Yard and learn from some of our best midshipmen and most esteemed faculty.
Hone these critical skills
All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:
- How to solve problems
- How to manage your time
- How to prioritize
- How to get along with people
- How to think
Read Books
Check out the Marine Corps reading list
Create your resume
List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman. Keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.
Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization with columns and rows:
Freshmen/Sophomores–Attend an Academy Night
These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.
Frosh/Soph–Get your Social Security Number
You must have one to apply to the Naval Academy. If you don’t have the card, get it.
Tour the Yard
Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.
Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis. Call for the current schedule.
Tour a warship
These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. You want to be sure the Naval Academy is right for you. Seeing officers at work on a Navy ship is a good idea.
Be a leader
Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.
Continue Community Service
Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.
Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?
Read the qualifications of a Midshipman here. See what you think.
–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
By now, you’ve finished your application, all the interviews, and have one big job remaining: Keep your grades, your leadership, and your physicality in top shape so when you receive the acceptance letter, you’re ready.
Important military and patriotic days:
- Pearl Harbor Day–December 7th
- War declared on Japan–Dec. 8, 1941
- Germany and Italy declared war on the US–Dec. 11, 1941
- US National Guard Birthday–December 13th
- Army vs Navy game–December 14th
- National Wreaths Across America Day–December 14th
- Bill of Rights Day–December 15th
- Official end of War in Iraq–Dec. 15th
- Battle of the Bulge–December 16th Remembrance Day
- Space Force birthday–December 20th
- Official End of WWII–December 31st
- RED Shirt Fridays–honor deployed soldiers by wearing red Fridays (RED=Remember Everyone Deployed)
Here are some articles to help you through December:
- A Soldier’s Christmas Poem
- Christmas Like a Soldier
Headed for USNA? Prepare Yourself–Freshman Year HSHeaded for USNA? Prepare Yourself Sophomore Year HSWant to Attend USNA? Prepare Yourself Junior Year HSHeaded for USNA? Prepare Yourself–Senior Year
Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:
December To Do List for USNA Applicants
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:
First Steps:
If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.
Here are two books to get you started:
Building a Midshipman
From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy as their college of choice.
Seniors–Check for Letter of Assurance
Few get them. Most candidates get an Offer of Appointment without an LOA. Don’t think too much about it, but if you get one, cheer.
Seniors–follow up on Blue-and-Gold Interview
The B&G (Blue and Gold) Interview is by your BGO. It allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to ensure that they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending on the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your BGO ‘likes’ you. It’s his/her job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.
Frosh/Soph: To find your Blue and Gold Officer Area Coordinator, please click here.
Seniors–Apply for a Candidate Weekend Visit
Even if you’ve already received your offer, attend this exciting weekend. You’ll get to see the Yard, visit Mids, ask more questions, see how the academics work. It’ll help you decide if you’re not sure, or clinch your decision to attend.
Seniors–DodMETS
This should be done by now. If you required a DodMETS waiver, follow up. Make sure it comes through. A good rule is to do everything you can until the ball is in someone else’s court so to speak. Don’t expect a waiver to happen without lots of personal attention.
Click here for background on DodMETS.
Seniors–get the CFA done
If you didn’t pass CFA during Summer Seminar or didn’t attend that event, arrange for your high school gym coach or someone else you trust to administer the full exam. If you don’t pass, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared.
For information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, click here and then here.
Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application
Check the binder you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you’ve sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your B&G Officer. In fact, stay in close touch with your B&G Officer at this stage in your process. He’ll be interviewing you and passing his recommendation on to the Admittance board.
Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.
Seniors–follow up on the Letters of Recommendation from teachers
Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.
Seniors–Congressional Interview
Depending upon the Congressperson, it may be too late to apply for this interview. These are due in Fall with interviews in November/December. Get one from your Congresspeople–including both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate. Handcarry it to your Congressperson’s office. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview in November/December.
To prepare for the Congressional Interview, read:
Seniors–Accepted? Get a Passport
You’ll need one eventually, and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.
Hone these critical skills
All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:
- How to solve problems
- How to manage your time
- How to prioritize
- How to get along with people
- How to think
Read Books
Check out the Marine Corps summer reading list
Create your resume
List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman. Keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.
Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization with columns and rows:
Freshmen/Sophomores–Attend an Academy Night
These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.
Frosh/Soph–Get your Social Security Number
You must have one to apply to the Naval Academy.
Tour the Yard
Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.
Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis.
Tour a warship
These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold Officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. You want to be sure the Naval Academy is right for you. Seeing officers at work on a Navy ship is a good idea.
Be a leader
Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.
Continue Community Service
Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.
Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?
Read the qualifications of a Midshipman here. See what you think.
–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
By now, you’ve finished the application save a few remaining items. Your job becomes to wait, patiently. Keep your grades solid, your physical in shape, your leadership well-tuned.
Important military and patriotic days:
- Election Day–Nov. 5th
- Marine Corps Birthday–Nov. 10th
- Armistice/Remembrance Day–Nov. 11th
- Veteran’s Day–Nov. 11th
- Grenada Campaign ended–Nov. 23, 1983
- Warrior Care Month–entire month
- National Military Family Month–entire month
Here are some articles to help you through November:
What’s it Like to Parent a Midshipman?
Want to Attend USNA? Prepare Yourself Junior Year HS
Headed for USNA? Prepare Yourself Sophomore Year HS
Do You Recognize the Early Warning Signs of a USNA Midshipman
39 Reasons to Love the Marine Corps
Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:
November Checklist for USNA Applicants
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:
First Steps:
If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.
Here is a great book to get you started:
Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application
From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy as their college of choice.
Seniors–Check for Letter of Assurance
These start coming out in the Fall. Few get them. Most candidates get a letter of Acceptance without a LOA. Don’t think too much about it, but if you get one, cheer.
Seniors–Prepare for Blue-and-Gold Interview
The B&G (Blue and Gold) Interview is by your BGO. It allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to insure that they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending on the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your BGO ‘likes’ you. It’s his job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.
Seniors–Attend a Candidate Visit Weekend
Candidate Visit Weekend (CVW) is a program conducted aboard USNA during the Fall and Spring academic semesters to expose candidates to all facets of life as a Midshipmen. CVW is an opportunity to sample university-level academics at USNA, to discover whether the Naval Academy will help you achieve your goals, and to offer valuable insight into the admissions process.
CVW is offered by invitation only throughout the academic year. Invitations are largely based on the level of completion of your application. Even if you’ve already received your offer, attend this exciting weekend if the invite arrives. You’ll get to see the Yard, visit with current Mids, ask more questions, see how the academics work. It’ll help you decide if you’re not sure, or clinch your decision to attend.
Seniors–DodMETS
Get DodMETS done. Immediately. If you’re not healthy, wait until you are and then do it. If you required a waiver, follow up. Make sure it comes through. A good rule is to do everything you can until the ball is in someone else’s court so to speak. Don’t expect a waiver to happen without lots of personal attention.
Click here for background on DodMETS.
Seniors–get the CFA done
If you didn’t pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) during Summer Seminar, or didn’t attend that event, arrange for your high school coach or someone else you trust to administer the full exam and get that out of the way. If you pass it, you’re done. If you don’t, you have until you submit your application to pass. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared. It’ll feel good to have that out of the way.
For information on the CFA, click here and then here.
Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application
Check the binder you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you’ve sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your B&G Officer. In fact, stay in close touch with your B&G Officer at this stage in your application process. He’ll be interviewing you and passing his recommendation on to the Admittance board.
Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.
Seniors–follow up on the Letters of Recommendation from teachers
Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.
Seniors–Prepare for Congressional Nomination
Depending upon the Congressperson, it may be too late to apply for this interview. These are due in Fall with interviews in November/December. Get one from your Congresspeople–including both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate. Hand carry it to your Congressperson’s office. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview in November/December.
To prepare for the Congressional Interview, read:
Juniors/Seniors–Take SAT and ACT
If you’ve taken it and are over 1400, you’re doing great. If not, take it as often as possible. There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer a PSAT-type tests for free. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.
Hone these critical skills
All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. Wherever there’s an opportunity to be one, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person. If you aren’t sure you have the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:
- How to solve problems
- How to manage your time
- How to prioritize
- How to get along with people
- How to think
Freshmen/Sophomores–Attend an Academy Night
These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.
Read Books
Check out the Marine Corps reading list
Tour the Yard
Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis. Call for the current schedule.
Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.
Tour a warship
These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. You want to be sure the Naval Academy is right for you. Seeing how officers work on a Navy ship is a good idea.
Focus on your unique skill
With summer comes less academic work. A good time to get back in touch with whatever it is that sets you apart from others. Military academies like that side of you. They want to know you can do everything, not just academics and sports.
Create your resume
List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman. If you’re older, do it now and keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.
Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Excel with a simple organization with columns and rows:
Continue Community Service
Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.
Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?
Read the qualifications of a Midshipman here. See what you think.
–taken from Building a Midshipman
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Important military and patriotic days:
- October 10th: Happy Birthday, USNA! (initially opened with 50 midshipman students and seven professors)
- October 10th: US forces take Okinawa
- October 13th: Happy Birthday, US Navy! (the Continental Congress authorizes construction of two warships)
- October 18: Military World Games
- October 26th: Day of the Deployed
- October 27th: Navy Day
Here are some articles to help you through October:
- Patriotic Music for your USNA Dream
- The Sailor’s Creed: What it Means to be in the Navy
- Successful USNA Grads
Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:
October To Do List for USNA Applicants
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:
First Steps:
If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.
Here’s a good book to get you started:
Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application
From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy as their college of choice.
Seniors–Check for Letter of Assurance
These start coming out in the Fall. Few get them. Most candidates are accepted without a LOA. Don’t think too much about it, but if you get one, cheer.
Seniors–Prepare for Congressional Nomination
Depending upon the Congressperson, it may be too late to apply for this interview. These are due in Fall with interviews in November/December. Get one from your Congresspeople–including both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate. Hand-carry it to your Congressperson’s office. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview in November/December.
To prepare for the Congressional Interview, read:
Seniors–Prepare for Blue-and-Gold Interview
The B&G (Blue and Gold) Interview is by your BGO. It allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to ensure they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your BGO ‘likes’ you. It’s his job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.
Seniors–Attend a Candidate Visit Weekend
Candidate Visit Weekend (CVW) is a program conducted aboard USNA to expose candidates to all facets of life as a Midshipmen. CVW is an opportunity to sample university-level academics at USNA, to discover whether the Naval Academy will help you achieve your goals, and to offer valuable insight into the admissions process.
CVW is offered by invitation only throughout the academic year. Invitations are largely based on the level of completion of your application. Even if you’ve already received your offer, attend this exciting weekend if the invite arrives. You’ll get to see the Yard, visit with current Mids, ask more questions, see how the academics work. It’ll help you decide if you’re not sure, or clinch your decision to attend.
Seniors–DodMETS
Get DodMETS done. Immediately. If you’re not healthy, wait until you are and then do it. If you required a waiver, follow up. Make sure it comes through. A good rule is to do everything you can until the ball is in someone else’s court so to speak. Don’t expect a waiver to happen without lots of personal attention.
Click here for background on DodMETS
Seniors–get the CFA done
If you didn’t pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) during Summer Seminar or didn’t attend that event, arrange for your high school coach or someone else you trust to administer the full exam and get that out of the way. If you pass it, you’re done. If you don’t, you have until you submit your application to pass. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared. It’ll feel good to have that out of the way.
For information on the CFA, click here and then here.
Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application
Check the binder (virtual or physical) you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you’ve sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your BGO. In fact, stay in close touch with your BGO at this stage in your application process. He’ll be interviewing you and passing his recommendation on to the Admittance board.
Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.
Seniors–follow up on the Letters of Recommendation from teachers
Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.
Seniors–take calculus if it’s offered. Take all AP and Honors classes you can.
You’ll have to take Calculus at USNA, so show the Academy you’re capable. The qualities that will enable you to succeed in AP and Honors classes are the same qualities the Naval Academy wants to see, so take the classes. Show them you thrive on challenges.
Juniors–If you haven’t already, start the Application
…on the USNA website. A preliminary application must be submitted to become an official candidate for next year’s entering class. January is the deadline to complete a preliminary application if you want to be included in next year’s application process.
Juniors–Take NMSQT test
Registration is done through your high school counselor. The first test is in October and is the gateway to many college scholarships and opportunities.
Soph/Juniors–Take SAT and ACT
If you’ve taken it and are over 1400, you’re doing great. If you’re not, take it as often as possible (even if you’re a senior). There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer a PSAT-type test for free. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.
Hone these critical skills
All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:
- How to solve problems
- How to manage your time
- How to prioritize
- How to get along with people
- How to think
Read Books
Check out the Marine Corps reading list
Attend an Academy Night
Like this video (an hour) and this announcement. These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.
Click here for more information on Academy Nights.
Tour the Yard
Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.
Tour a warship
These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. You want to be sure the Naval Academy is right for you. Seeing officers working on a Navy ship is a good idea.
Visit Colleges You Might Like to Attend
Applications aren’t due until November/December. Be prepared. This time, before you make a decision, is the time to determine which colleges serve you best. A word of advice: Have back-up schools to USNA. Even if you’re accepted, you want to know it’s the best choice for you, so investigate the competition. Make an informed decision.
Be a leader
Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.
Create your resume
List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman, but if you’re older than that, do it now. And keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.
Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Excel with a simple organization with columns and rows:
Continue Community Service
Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.
Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?
- Read Why We Serve
- ReadQualifications of a Naval Officer from Reef Points
- Read about the USNA Honor Concept
- Read Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…
- Read 9 Secrets for Getting in USNA
- Read Life the USNA Way
–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Important military and patriotic days:
- Sept. 2nd–Day the Japanese surrendered and official end of WWII
- Sept. 6th–Labor Day
- Sept. 11th–Patriot Day (for 9/11)
- Sept. 17th–Constitution Day
- Sept. 17th-–POW/MIA Recognition Day (3rd Friday in September)
- Sept. 18th–USAF’s Birthday
- Sept. 21-28–Warrior Games
- Sept. 26–Gold Star Mother’s/Family’s Day (last Sunday in September)
Here are some articles to help you through September:
- The Congressional Interview
- The Congressional Interview–Part I
- How to Prepare for the Congressional Interview–Part II
- How to Prepare for the Congressional Interview–Part III
- Labor Day: Honor American Warriors
- 9-11: We Remember
- POW/MIA Recognition Day
- Constitution Day!
Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:
September To Do List for USNA Applicants
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:
First Steps:
If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.
Here are two books to get you started:
From the perspective of a high school student who was accepted. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy as their college of choice.
A general and useful overview of the USNA application and the academy in general
Seniors–Check for Letter of Assurance
These start coming out in the Fall. Few get them. Most successful candidates are accepted without an LOA. Don’t think too much about it, but if you get one, cheer.
Seniors–DodMETS
Get DodMETS done. Immediately. If you’re healthy now, who knows what happens later. When you’re done, you’ll receive notification (eventually) that you passed, failed, or they have questions. If you failed because of something you can get a medical waiver for, do it.
A good rule is to do everything you can until the ball is in someone else’s court so to speak, and then follow up until you have your next job. Don’t expect a waiver to happen without lots of personal attention.
Click here for background on DodMETS
Seniors–get the CFA done
Get it out of the way. If you didn’t pass CFA during Summer Seminar, or didn’t attend that event, arrange for your high school gym coach or someone else you trust to administer the full exam. If you pass it, you’re done. If you don’t, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared. It’ll feel good to have that out of the way.
For information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, click here and then here.
Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application
Check the binder you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check the online application site to be sure USNA has everything you sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your BGO. In fact, stay in close touch with him/her at this stage in your application process. He’ll be interviewing you and passing his recommendation on to the Admittance board.
Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.
Seniors–follow up on teacher Letters of Recommendation
Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. Stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.
Seniors–take Physics and Calculus if offered.
You’ll have to at USNA, so show the Academy you’re capable.
Seniors–request a Congressional Nomination Package
These are due in Fall. Get one from your Congressperson and both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate. Mail the packages to the Senators. Often, they do all of their selections via mail–no personal interviews. For the Congressperson, hand-carry it. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview.
For more on the Congressional Nomination, check out these articles:
Seniors–Attend a Candidate Visit Weekend
Candidate Visit Weekend (CVW) is a program conducted during the Fall and Spring academic semesters to expose candidates to all facets of life as a Midshipmen. CVW is an opportunity to sample university-level academics at USNA, to discover whether the Naval Academy will help you achieve your goals, and to offer valuable insight into the admissions process.
CVW is offered by invitation only at certain points in the academic year. Invitations are largely based on the level of completion of your application. Even if you’ve already received your offer, attend this exciting weekend if the invite arrives. You’ll get to see the Yard, visit with current Mids, ask more questions, see how the academics work. It’ll help you decide if you’re not sure, or clinch your decision to attend.
Here’s an example:
Juniors–If you haven’t already, start the Application
…on the USNA website. A preliminary application must be submitted to become an official candidate for next year’s entering class. January is the deadline to complete a preliminary application.
Juniors–Register for PSAT/NMSQT test
This is done through your high school counselor. It is the gateway to many college scholarships and opportunities.
Soph/Juniors–Prepare for CFA
Juniors: You can take this as soon as you have a candidate number. Click for information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment. This will be given to rising Seniors during Summer Seminar. If you pass it, you’re done. If you don’t, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared. It’ll feel good in August to have that out of the way.
Here’s an example of one, but from a few years ago:
Take SAT and ACT
Seniors–September is the last chance to improve your score. Sophs and Juniors–take one and see how you do. There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer PSAT-type tests for free. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.
Go to an Academy Night
These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.
Click here for more information on Academy Nights.
Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.
Tour the Yard
Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis.
Hone critical skills
All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:
Read Books
Check out the Marine Corps summer reading list. BTW, if you’ve read any of the books on this list and would be willing to contribute a book review of it, I’d be thrilled to include you. There are far too many books for me to cover so I need help!
Tour a warship
These tours are offered through your BGO or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. First and foremost, you want to be sure that a Naval Academy choice is right for you. Seeing how officers work on a Naval ship is a good idea.
Visit Other Colleges You Might Like to Attend
Applications aren’t due until September (early apps) or November/December for the rest. Be prepared. This time, before the earliest decision, is the time to determine which colleges serve you best. A word of advice: Have backup schools to USNA. Even if you’re accepted, you want to know it’s the best choice for you, so investigate the competition. Make an informed decision.
Focus on your unique skill
Get in touch with whatever it is that sets you apart from others. Military academies like that side of you. They want to know you can do everything, not just academics and sports.
Be a leader
Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.
Create your resume
List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman, but if you’re older than that, do it now. And keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.
Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization of columns and rows:
Continue Community Service
Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.
Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?
-
- Read this post on Why We Serve
- Read this Qualifications of a Naval Officer from Reef Points
- Read about the USNA Honor Concept
- Read Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…
- Read 9 Secrets for Getting in USNA
- Read Life the USNA Way
–taken in part from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application
–image credit Deposit Photo
Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.
“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman