United States Air Force Academy

Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We Do

United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) Admissions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the next generation of leaders in the world’s most advanced Air Force and Space Force.

Why the Air Force Academy?

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the U.S. Air Force Academy trains and educates officers of character who will lead in air, space, and cyberspace. With rigorous academics, athletics, and military development, USAFA is among the most competitive colleges in the nation. Our consulting team helps candidates navigate this demanding process with clarity and confidence.

Quick Facts

  • Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science (all majors)

  • Service Obligation: 5 years active duty after commissioning (plus additional service for rated positions like pilot, navigator, or cyber)

  • Application Window: Candidate Questionnaire opens March of junior year

The Air Force Academy Admissions Process at a Glance

Confirm Eligibility

  • U.S. citizen, ages 17–23 by July 1 of entry year.

  • Unmarried, no dependents.

  • Medically and physically qualified.

Open the Pre-Candidate Questionnaire (PCQ)

  • Opens March of junior year.

  • Requires GPA, test scores, activities, and class rank.

  • Competitive candidates are invited to the Candidate Portal.

Standardized Testing (SAT/ACT)

  • USAFA superscores.

  • Focus on strong math/verbal balance.

  • Must be completed by December of senior year.

Nominations (Required)

  • Apply to Members of Congress (both Senators + Representative).

  • Other sources: Vice President, Presidential (military parent), ROTC/JROTC, Children of Deceased/Disabled Veterans.

  • Begin applications early fall of senior year.

Teacher/Counselor Evaluations & Transcripts

  • English, math, and science teacher/guidance counselor evaluations.

  • High school profile, official transcripts, counselor report.

Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)

  • Six events: basketball throw, pull-ups/flexed-arm hang, shuttle run, crunches, push-ups, one-mile run.

  • Must be administered by approved test official.

  • Competitive scores strengthen the application.

Medical Qualification (DoDMERB)

  • Schedule as soon as authorized.

  • Address remedials quickly; waivers possible for otherwise strong candidates.

Admissions Liaison Officer (ALO) Interview

  • ALO is an Air Force officer who evaluates leadership, motivation, and knowledge of the Academy.

  • Professionalism and communication skills are critical.

Board Review & Appointments

  • Rolling evaluations begin in the fall.

  • Most offers of appointment occur Jan–Apr.

Our Proven Support (What We Do for Families)

  • Application Timeline: Step-by-step plan from junior spring through In-Processing Day.

  • Test Strategy: Guidance on SAT/ACT retakes, superscoring, and score goals.

  • Resume Coaching: Highlight athletics, leadership, and technical aptitude.

  • Essay Guidance: Craft authentic statements reflecting Air Force values and service commitment.

  • Nomination Prep: Packet review, interview practice, deadline tracking.

  • CFA Training: Tailored workout plans and mock tests.

  • ALO Interview Coaching: Mock sessions with feedback to build confidence.

  • DoDMERB Guidance: Help with documentation, waivers, and medical concerns.

Ideal Timeline (Junior → Senior Year)

March–June (Junior Spring)

  • Complete Pre-Candidate Questionnaire

  • Take SAT/ACT (plan for retakes)

  • Begin CFA training

Summer (Between Junior/Senior Year)

  • Apply to Summer Seminar, if eligible

  • Draft nomination packets

  • Ask teachers for evaluations

  • Continue SAT/ACT prep

September–November (Senior Fall)

  • Submit nomination applications; prepare for interviews

  • Provide transcripts and school evaluations

  • Retake SAT/ACT as needed

  • Schedule DoDMERB exam

December–February (Senior Winter)

  • Complete CFA and upload scores

  • Complete ALO interview

  • Finalize essays and candidate portal

March–April

  • Appointment decisions released

  • If not offered, consider USAFA Prep School or Falcon Foundation Scholarship options

What the Air Force Academy Looks For (Whole-Candidate Score)

  • Academic Strength: Rigor in math/science, top class rank, strong SAT/ACT.

  • Leadership & Character: Leadership positions, teamwork, service, initiative.

  • Athletic Ability: Varsity sports, physical fitness, CFA performance.

  • Commitment to Service: Clear motivation for military and Air Force career.

Common Pitfalls (and How We Avoid Them)

  • Late Nomination Deadlines: We keep candidates ahead of schedule.

  • Uncompetitive CFA Scores: Structured training and practice tests ensure readiness.

  • Weak Essays: We guide candidates to express genuine service motivation.

  • DoDMERB Delays: Support with medical documentation and waiver requests.

  • Unprepared ALO Interview: We rehearse with candidates consistantly so they present confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a nomination?
Yes. Nearly all applicants must secure a nomination source. We help maximize options.

Does USAFA superscore?
Yes. The highest section scores across test dates are combined.

What’s a competitive score?
Ranges vary, but math/verbal balance is key. Our team benchmarks against recent admitted class data.

What if I’m not offered an appointment?
Candidates may be considered for the Prep School or Falcon Foundation Scholarship.

Can I apply to ROTC too?
Yes. We encourage parallel applications to Air Force ROTC.