Hang in there goldenlion. It is a tough call as to when to apply. When DS and I discussed it, we talked about the likelihood of significantly higher scores if he took the SAT again before applying, versus the fact that there would be more open slots for the CGA Scholars Program in early action than in prior years. He didn't do test prep over the summer, so we didn't think it was likely that his scores would increase significantly and there wasn't anything else to be included in his application that would change dramatically this fall. Also, he needs a medical waiver for a condition that was surgically corrected a year+ ago. So we decided he would probably fare best at the front of the line - the maximum number of spots available and time to get the medical waiver. However, it didn't work out.
He has about six EA applications in to other schools, but he has also written to his AO about whether the deficiencies in his application can be addressed by a year of self-prep.
Admissions is, of course, looking for bright individuals who have a proven track record and are persons of character. As an adult, it is great to see so many applicants that meet that description. However, with over 18,000 high schools in the U.S., that means there are over 18,000 class valedictorians every year. So, just as with "regular schools" I suspect that the USCGA has more than enough applicants that meet the academic criteria.
The harder part for USCGA admissions is choosing the applicants that: (1) will stay for the four years (according to a string on the USMMA forum, Kings Point graduates 65% - 68% of the entering class); and (2) are likely to be capable of taking on significant responsibility when they graduate. Then, all things being substantially equal among those who meet all of the foregoing criteria, build a class with geographic, gender and racial diversity and meets the other needs of the Academy.
This year, the USCGA may be the hardest school to get into in the country. Remember that the class size was cut from about 290 to 240. There are 50 60 CGA Scholars preparing to take seats in that class of 240. There are probably at least as many reapplying after a year of self prep.
If your child is accepted, that will be awesome, but if not, I suspect he/she is resilient enough to find great alternatives. In a sense, being appointed to the USCGA makes things kind of simple because the student knows that he/she will be spending the four years with like-minded students and doing meaningful work for at least five years after graduation. For those who have to go with a Plan B, they must find a good fit school and a program that will prepare them for a less certain job career and then find a job after graduation. However, the work our children have done to make themselves competitive for the USCGA has prepared them well for Plan Bs.
We have special children. They want to do good, rather than chase the dollar. The world will be a better place because of them whichever path they head down.