Question about Prep School???

[db10]

I am applying to both Kings Point and West Point. My grades are good but not excellent(3.5 gpa) same w/ SAT scores(M-540 W-620 CR-620). I do however have a lot of leadership experience and extracurricular activities. I was wondering who is offered a spot at USMAPS? And when you complete the first year, are you basically admitted into USMA? If not do you stay for one more year? Any advice is good advice.

[usna1985]

I can only speak to USNA's programs -- I would guess that USMA's are similar, but that's only a guess.

USNA automatically considers candidates who are deemed not qualified academically for USNA for NAPS and Foundation (private prep schools). If you are offered a spot, you can decide whether or not to accept. If you successfully complete either program (academically and otherwise), you are essentially guaranteed a spot in the following year's USNA class.

Whether you're offered a NAPS/Foundation spot is up to the Admissions Board at USNA. Basically, they are looking for people whom they believe have the potential to succeed at USNA but need some additional academic prep. Normal indicators for this are high SAT, low class rank/GPA; or the converse. Maybe doing well academically but not taking the highest level courses (i.e., getting an A in Algebra II but not having Pre-Calc or Calc). It is a very individualized determination.

Again, not sure how USMA works, but probably similar.

[db10]

how many spots do they usually offer?? If offered the spot I would most certainly take it. would my grades be considered low enough for the prep school??

[jackson1989]

The prep school normally has about 250 cadet candidates and the AOG foundation normally has around 100 candidates. The AOG foundation is the sponsored private prep school program. I am not sure of the number of offers, but it will be based upon the academies acceptance rate which will be established from their past years of experience.

The interview with your liason officer will be your opportunity to state your willingness to accept a prep school slot.

Keep working where you can strengthen your application, CFA, SAT/ACT, etc. and try to demonstrate your desire to attend no matter what is required. An offer to a prep program is basically the respective academy saying "We want you". Then it is up to you!

Best of luck!

[db10]

you said an interview with a liasion officer...does west point require you have an interview??? or is that something you establish on your own.

[Just_A_Mom]

db10 -
Yes, West Point generally tries to ensure that every candidate receive an interview.

As a part of your application packet - it used to be a post card, perhaps it's online now - there is a way to inform West Point admissions that you would consider an offer to a Prep program (either USMAPS or an AOG Scholarship).

If you are able to go visit West Point as a Candidate you also will have the opportunity for a one-on-one review of your file with a Regional Commander. If you take part in this you also can express your desire to be considered for a prep program.
If you can't visit - feel free to make contact with your Regional Commander, either by phone or email and initiate a conversation about your file and qualifications.
Good Luck.

[db10]

Just A Mom..have you done this before..your answer was great...thanks