I received an offer of appointment for USNA back in January. However I recently tore my ACL / meniscus and had surgery last week. I realize this is a DQ for class of 2025. It is waiverable from what I understand after 12 months post surgery. Due to my circumstance, USNA is offering me Foundation or a civilian prep option (school of my choice) and I do not need to reapply for class of 2026. Any opinions on these two routes from experience?
Foundation or Civilian Prep Recommendation?
- Thread starter B2003
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I think you do need to re-apply, even if you had an appointment offer. Admissions usually gives people who get a medical issue that prevents them from reporting in some version of an LOA for the next class. Please confirm that with them. DoDMERB will have to re-qualify you medically, and I believe other elements of the application are repeated. Be sure to ask if they expect you to re-apply for all the usual noms. Don’t assume, and get your direction straight from Admissions on what is required for your case.
Admissions sends the suggested names for prep over to the independent non-profit USNA Foundation, an off-shoot of the independent USNA Alumni Association.
This is a good deal you are being offered. It’s clear USNA thought you were ready to come in academically, so it’s an opportunity to keep skills sharp and recover health and fitness. I would factor in location and proximity to rehab/your doctors. The Foundation partner schools all have good reputations, see what feels like a good fit. Civil prep, assess those in the same way. That could be as easy as the local community college and the toughest plebe-like courses they have, get started/advance in a language, etc.
@Capt MJ Thank you for your feedback. I have gotten clear direction from both admissions and the foundation program that I do not reapply to USNA, however I do need to reapply for all nomination sources. Just trying to figure out the best course forward... a foundation prep school or a year at a civilian school.
nonsensecadet
USAFA '29
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I believe so. I was a self-sponsored cadet myself, so I’m not entirely familiar with the behind-the-scenes process of how civil prep functions.
From what I know from some sponsored cadets, they usually have the option to choose one of the five SA prep schools: Georgia Military College, Marion Military Institute, New Mexico Military Institute, Northwestern Preparatory School, and Greystone Preparatory School.
I attended Marion Military Institute (MMI), and it was a phenomenal experience. Looking back, I can say it truly prepared me physically, academically, and mentally for the SA’s rigorous environment. The instructors, faculty, and fellow cadets are genuinely committed to supporting and uplifting you, helping you reach your goals.
From my understanding, correct me if i'm wrong, the SA will sponsor you / provide a scholarship that covers tuition, books, and other expenses for the prep school of your choice. Some cadets may only need to pay a small portion, but overall, it’s definitely manageable. I recommend doing thorough research to determine which prep school would be the best fit for your DS—consider location and other factors.
It’s important to stay humble throughout this process, as it can be challenging for everyone. Some courses are demanding, as I experienced at MMI, and reaching the finish line requires hard work. That’s expected, since the academics mirror those at the SAs, but with dedication, it’s absolutely achievable. Just as long as you pass the classes with C's or higher but obviously try to do your very best!