Air Force Academy

Being appointed and accepted to the U.S. Air Force Academy is by far the most difficult and competitive route to becoming an officer. Attending the Academy is quite different from attending a normal college or university; the first semester begins with Basic Cadet Training, and the entire student body is structured on the model of a military unit. The 5-week Basic Cadet Training (BCT) is notoriously difficult and has earned the nickname "The Beast" among cadets. Training is intended to introduce incoming students to military discipline-cadets are expected to wear proper uniform and salute their superiors.

After the completion of Basic Cadet Training the academic year begins. Each student is assigned to a Cadet Wing. Freshmen, referred to as "doolies", have an intensely structured life. Cadets live in a dorm and follow a strict schedule that includes designated study time. In addition to standard academics every cadet takes classes in military strategy, doctrine, heritage and professionalism intended as preparation for becoming an officer. Summers are spent on aviation training-upperclassmen have the responsibility of leading the training exercises. After receiving light-plane instruction cadets must pass a solo flight in order to be selected for undergraduate pilot training upon graduation. After graduation many cadets become navigators and pilots while others are selected to become part of the Air Force management team.

For Admission to the Air Force Academy, candidates must first be nominated for appointment by a U.S. Congressman, Senator, or the Vice President of the United States. Other nomination paths available to aspiring candidates are available; the Air Force Academy will offer instructions to promising individuals to guide them through the nomination process. The Academy is extremely selective, and it is recommended to start academic and physical preparation as early as junior high school. Additionally, the Academy requires the following high school curriculum:

• English: Four years, including a college prep course on composition.
• Mathematics: Four years, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus.
• Basic Sciences: Four years, including chemistry, physics, computers and additional courses in the sciences.
• Social Science: Two years including history, economics and government.
• Foreign Language: Two years of a foreign language.

Academic preparation beyond these requirements is advantageous during consideration for admission. The admissions process is quite complex and lengthy-guidelines can be found in greater detail in the Air Force Academy application package. Interested students should obtain an application from their high school guidance councilor more than a year before the date they would like to matriculate.

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