When should I start my application?

Hi, I’m going into my senior year of high school and I’m interested in attending USAFA. I took the ACT and got a 29 and was really disappointed with my score, then retook it and got a 27, which was even more disappointing. I decided to switch to the SAT and take it in August, I took my first practice test and got a 1420, so I’m looking good rn, the problem is should I wait until I get my scores from the August SAT which would be late August to start my application? I read online that it takes 4 monthes to complete the application process, which would be cutting it close. The basic question I’m asking is can I start my pre-candidate questionnaire and then submit my hopefully better SAT later so my application is better. Would it hurt me to submit my 29? Should I wait until my SAT so I look academically stronger?

Start your application yesterday. Start your MOC applications for a nomination yesterday. See the MOC website for info on their procedure. Their deadlines are sometimes in Sept, some in Oct. Send your SAT scores in when they are ready. They will superscore. Hell, you probably will have no where near a complete application by the end of August. Why wait to start? You have a lot of ducks to get in a row... get working on it. Good luck!

As kinnem stated above - you should start your application immediately (or yesterday). This process is unlike the typical college application process and requires A LOT more planning, attention to detail and work in navigating the application process. If this is where you want to go, then have faith in yourself that you will get better test scores. But if you wait until August/September to start, you may miss some deadlines (ie. congressional nomination submission dates, etc.). Both our Cadets used an Excel spreadsheet to track required items (when they were due, if started, if submitted, if waiting for others like references/recommendations, etc). Just the application process weeds folks out due to the sheer volume of things that need to get done. But if it is where you want to go, start the process, get organized, and work your plan.......Good luck.

Ew3081, what's the status of your application? Share some good news!

I'm back after my DS was declined in 2017. My DD started her application this month and is now in candidate status and her nomination was received. We wish all the applicants good luck!