The tests are something that you can keep on taking, and something that with a little effort and practice you can improve on tremendously. And although I don't know the exact formula USNA uses, I think it is safe to conclude that test scores are perhaps the most significant scoring factors, as they are at other academies, and colleges in general.
My son applied to USMA, USNA, and USAFA, and at some point in the process asked his admissions representative from each school what, if anything he could do to improve his chances. In each case the admissions counselor/RC told him that even though he is very competitive now, and that his scores are very good, test scores could still be boosted. His ACT scores are m34, e31 s34, r30, and his sports and leadership are very good, but the one thing they always have emphasised, including the USNA counselor, was test scores. In my mind his GPA (3.8) and class rank (20 out of 138) was clearly his weakest link, but they all push the test scores. I think it is a big deal.
My son applied to USMA, USNA, and USAFA, and at some point in the process asked his admissions representative from each school what, if anything he could do to improve his chances. In each case the admissions counselor/RC told him that even though he is very competitive now, and that his scores are very good, test scores could still be boosted. His ACT scores are m34, e31 s34, r30, and his sports and leadership are very good, but the one thing they always have emphasised, including the USNA counselor, was test scores. In my mind his GPA (3.8) and class rank (20 out of 138) was clearly his weakest link, but they all push the test scores. I think it is a big deal.