The awarding of Official Candidate status generally is based upon submitting SAT or ACT scores that are considered competitive; eg, SAT: 650 math, 600 verbal, ACT: 27 math, 25 verbal - but be aware there are other factors that come into play in making the designation. As you go through this process you will come to realize that there are a lot of unknown factors at play and very little is automatic. For example, being designated Triple Q'd means that the candidate has met or exceeded the minimum academic standards, passed the medical exam, and met the CFA standards, and nothing more. What transpires from that point is going to depend upon how that candidate ranks - from Admission's perspective - with the other candidates on the slate(s) with whom he/she is competing. This is why I keep harping on the fact that the most important task of any serious, committed candidate is to do what is necessary to become the best candidate he/she can be! Getting obsessed with playing the odds, taking shortcuts, or being satisfied with performances less than what you know to be your best most probably earn you a spot on the short list for a TWE next spring no matter how long you have dreamed of being a midshipman. These are big scholarships with excellent educations and opportunities, and the powers that be are expected to bring in the best young men and women among the candidates. Three revived slogans: Aim High... Be the Best You Can Be... We Are Looking for Commitments... Best wishes in your efforts.