How often are LOAs given out?

Hello, I am from the southeast region and I received an LOA a while back. I am also applying to USAFA and USNA, but I haven't seen much news on those forums of candidates receiving LOAs, but the USMA forums seem to have a lot of LOA candidates. Does west point give out LOAs more frequently than the other academies? Also, does that make the effectiveness of the LOA more diluted by any chance?

Search this forum; LOA's have many posts. Good luck!

Only the SAs know how many LOAs are given out. What you see here on SAF is, of course, self-reported, and only represents a small fraction of active applicants and appointees.
What’s to dilute? An LOA + fully qualified + nom = appointment. No need to look right or left.

Capt MJ said:

Only the SAs know how many LOAs are given out. What you see here on SAF is, of course, self-reported, and only represents a small fraction of active applicants and appointees.
What’s to dilute? An LOA + fully qualified + nom = appointment. No need to look right or left.

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Ah, that is very true. Thank you for your help.

Congrats! Which part of the SE? Could you share some of your stats?

Check USNA's website and you will see that admissions categorizes qualified candidates as either Outstanding Achievement or Board Qualified. All of those in the former category receive an LOA. Those in the latter do not, but are still eligible for appointment.

USMA issues LOA's through a process that is far less uniform and historically issues fewer LOA's than other SA's, although recently seems to be issuing more. A candidate in one region/district may receive an LOA, while a more qualified candidate in another region/district does not get an LOA. Having an LOA is a significant benefit, but not having one is in no way an impediment.