Overview of the Academy

As a young man or woman considering your options for obtaining a quality college education, you may wonder what unique aspects the United States Military Academy has to offer. West Point offers one of the most highly respected, quality education programs in the nation. A West Point cadetship includes a fully funded four-year college education. Tuition, room, board, medical and dental care are provided by the U.S. Army. As members of the Armed Forces, cadets also receive an annual salary of more than $6,500. This pay covers the cost of uniforms, books, a personal computer, and living incidentals. By law, graduates of West Point are appointed on active duty as commissioned officers and serve in the U.S. Army for a minimum of five years.

Each year the United States Military Academy admits 1,150 to 1,200 young men and women. These new members of the cadet corps come from all corners of the United States and represent nearly every race, religion and culture in the country. Nurtured by the West Point environment, this diversity of background helps cadets gain a cultural as well as a rich educational experience.

To become a cadet you must meet the requirements specified by public law and must be qualified academically, physically and medically. Each candidate must also obtain a nomination from a member of Congress or from the Department of the Army in one of the service connected categories described below.

As a candidate you are evaluated for admission on the basis of academic performance (high school record and SAT or ACT scores), demonstrated leadership potential, physical aptitude and medical qualification. West Point seeks a class composition of top scholars, leaders, athletes, women and minorities to maintain a diversified collegiate environment and student body. Candidates with outstanding qualifications in one or more areas and those who have extenuating social, financial, or family circumstances which limit athletic, academic, or leadership opportunities may receive special consideration for admission to the incoming class.