I am a Senior in high school and recently found out about the service academies. I was planning on going to a state university, but after researching, I've decided that going into the academy would be the option I favored more. It has constantly been on my mind for the past month or so and it is something I really want to do. My grades are good and I tested well on the ACT, the only thing that is holding me back is the government nominations. I missed the cutoff for my congressmen's application, but I can still try and get the VP and Presidential nomination. Should I try to get those even though it is very unlikely that I will?
It’s always worth a try, and keep in mind that many successfully re-apply to an SA from college. You have more than one shot at this until you age out
The Presidential nom is an eligibility-based one. If you’re eligible, apply and provide the required docs.
Apply for the VP, as everyone should. The SA evaluates and chooses those, no interaction with VP staff.
You’ll have to hustle to get everything else set in motion, including CFA and DoDMERB process.
You should continue work on your alternate plan at civilian schools. Does your state university have an ROTC detachment in your service of interest? Do the research on applying for ROTC scholarships, fast, because that process is already underway. ROTC units can also be participated in without a scholarship, and get you started on the path to an officer commission AND can be an additional nom source for the SA next cycle.
If you were to apply and are not successful this cycle, you will be “in the system” as a re-applicant next cycle, which shows determination and desire. Your medical exam is good for two years, you will know the ropes, and you may have a strong semester of college grades in plebe-like course to deliver.