Fully Qualified - Notify MOC?

[TomV]

My son received the "fully qualified -- need nomination before admission" letter last week. One Senator's nomination board met last week. The other gives date of Nov.-Dec. Not sure when Representative's board meets but I think all compare notes as to not double up on noms and give more a chance. We are in Texas so it is very competitive. My question is this --

Would our MOCs already be aware of the "fully qualified" status? Is it something that we should inform them of and might it enhance chances of nomination? Don't want to break any "protocol" but also don't want to miss an opportunity to get that nomination.

Thanks!

 

[armybratkl]

Should you notify the MOC's?
ABSOLUTELY.

The letter you refer to is more often called a Letter of Assurance (LOA), and says that, as long as you meet the requirements stated (in your son's case, a nomination), the respective academy will hold a spot for this candidate. It is the Academy's version of early admission, and often guarantees that the candidate will receive a nomination (as long as they've applied, of course.)

Good luck to your son.

 

[titan2010]

Is it an LoA? You will know by the wording... "Congratulations! The admissions committee has recommended you for an appointment to the United States Military Academy (USMA). Accordingly, I have reserved a cadetship for you contigent upon (insert unfinished business here). Once these matters are resolved, you will be appointed a member of the USMA class of 2014." That is an LoA.

There are scholastically qualifed letters that go out that are different. Both are worth mentioning to the MoC's office, however only the LoA can garuntee the appointment with a nomination. Either way, congrats on a big step towards being there in June.

 

[TomV]

Based on wording that others have posted, it appears my son has only one foot in the West Point door at this time. Or maybe just that the door is not closed. He completed his application (CFA scores) within the last couple of weeks so this letter is likely more of a notice that everything is in order and he is still in the running. Regardless, it was encouraging to get the letter and know that he is being considered. My son will call his MALO when he gets home from school today and see what the MALO recommends as a next step, if anything.

Congrats to those who are already in and those who are on the brink. This has been a great journey for my son and me. We have had some great talks about life and service to God and country. Whatever the outcome it has been worth the effort.