@WindandSea, this is a good thing and DS is absolutely still in the mix. Unlike the other SA's whereby each MOC or Senator gets 5 slots at each academy at any one time (essentially at least 1 per year), USMMA initially offers appointments based on geographic allocation ... the number of slots given to each state is defined by law (e.g., NY has 15, HI has 2 ... proportional to congressional representation). Appointments are offered to the highest ranking candidates in each state. Once the state allocation of appointments have been offered, remaining candidates deemed qualified are put on the National Waiting List. O/a 1 April, USMMA transitions to filling the remaining slots in the class by offering appointments to those on the NWL based on order of merit. The initial offers of appointment to the highest ranking candidates by state does not fill the class and a portion of those offers are declined by appointees (perhaps also appointed to USNA, etc ...). Thus, the NWL serves to fill the remainder of the class. It is still competitive but applicants compete nationally vs. their respective states which at times are more competitive (e.g., NY among others is very competitive). Older threads on this forum discuss Domine vs. Kumar which is case law discussing a 2012 case whereby Wisconsin applicants (on NWL) brought legal action against the school upon being denied admission. It is a good read on the process. Keep the faith!DS got an email from USMMA today that he is a "Hold Candidate." In searching the forum from last year is appears that it is a good thing. I guess the waiting continues now but it is nice to know he is academically, medically and physically qualified and has 2 Senatorial nominations. Out of his hands now...