People confuse why the prep system exists.
It doesn't exist for the "qualified" cadet. In other words, for this yr it is not going to be 1150 get AFA, and 1151+ are offered prep.
It exists for candidates that have the whole package, but yet need 1 more yr academically.
Traditionally, it goes to high gpas, and low SAT/ACT scoring applicants.
Not an ALO, but I would think 30 ACT, (unless we are looking at 34 V and 26 M) with a 3.80 uwgpa would be considered for a prep spot.
Prep is not like the Miss USA pageant and 1st runner up gets it.
As far as going NMMI, that is a personal choice. IMPO, candidates that get the TWE and try again next yr as a freshman ROTC cadet traditionally do just as well.
Here's the thing, if you opt to go that ROTC route, be up front and honest with the det now. Believe it or not they will be happy to sponsor you. Our DS opted AFROTC, as parents we took him to the college and had a one on one with the command in FEB (before the board closed). We were forthright and told them he was electing this route, but unsure if next yr he would regret and it, thus maybe he would want to apply again.
He assured us he would support our DS if he decided in the fall that ROTC was not for him. He stated he would support him for an ROTC nom. Sept rolled around; commander called DS into his office
moment as a freshman. Asked point blank do you want to apply to the AFA, we need to work on it now. He said no. FF to his sophomore yr. Commander called him in again and asked the same question.
ROTC commanders are in it to make the best officers, and to make sure they have a cadre that feels supported. They aren't in it for territory reasons.
JMPO.