I just opened my portal, and while I was not offered an appointment, I was offered a falcon foundation scholarship to attend a prep school. I think I’m going to take it, but what’s the next step as far as selecting a school, applying, etc?
If you are dead set on the Air Force Academy and want to get in the following year, there is no better way to go.
1. It is highly unlikely a Falcon Foundation Scholarship will be converted to a direct appointment offer
2. If you plan to go to ROTC and reapply, a Falcon Scholarship is a better and more certain path. There is over a 95% acceptance rate. ROTC students tend not to perform to an academic level that gains them an appointment the following year. If you go the ROTC path, you had better hit the ground running. No time for homesickness, learning time management skills, etc. Falcon scholars are afforded this opportunity as long as they don't blow it.
3. Falcon Scholars are expected to earn As, but an occasional B is ok as long as you are not skating
4. If you do what is expected, gain a nomination, retake standardized tests, retake the CFA and do well, and remain medically qualified, you will get in.
5. Data shows that Falcon Scholars as a group, perform better than any other group at USAFA.
6. Oh and did I tell you the mentoring at the schools and by the Falcon Foundation is a plus and some schools have aviation programs.
7. Read the literature on costs, requirements, etc. that came with the offer. Contact the schools for more information and choose the school that is right for you.
8. USAFA will send an invitation to attend a virtual orientation of the Falcon Foundation and the 5 schools shortly. The orientation will be on 10 Apr.
9. If you are unsure, you might want to wait until you attend the orientation.
10. Otherwise, pick your school and accept as soon as you have decided.
11. Of course a Falcon Foundation school/scholarship may not be for you. In that case decline as soon as you know so USAFA can offer someone else. Only 65 scholarships are available.
12. One year is not a long time to wait if this path gets you to your dreams, but that's hard to digest for a 17 year-old. IMHO the benefits outweigh the costs.
13. Finally, don't look at a Falcon Scholarship as a rejection by USAFA. Its actually a validation that your ultimate attendance is desired. USAFA is saving a spot for you if you perform well.