For all those applying, please understand that NASS is a MARKETING TOOL. This means the program is designed/intended/has as its primary purpose introducing USNA to people from schools and areas of the country from which USNA historically has had no/few applicants/appointees.
The import of this is that NASS applicants from underrepresented schools and areas are more likely to be accepted than equally -- or even better -- qualified applicants from areas/schools that historically send quite a few people to USNA. The reasoning is that, even if the person who attends NASS is not super-qualified, he/she will hopefully go back to his/her school and community and talk up USNA which in turn may encourage other, more qualified, students to consider the Academy.
Thus, the fact that someone IS accepted to NASS does not necessarily mean he/she is extremely well qualified for an appointment. Conversely -- and more importantly -- the fact someone is NOT accepted to NASS does not mean he/she isn't qualified for USNA, won't be accepted, etc.
NASS is a great program and, if you're interested in USNA, you should apply. However, if you aren't accepted, please don't be discouraged from applying to USNA.