NAPS Eligibility/chances

[candidate3256]

Hey all. Like many others, i’m still currently CPR to USNA and was wondering what they look for when considering a candidate for NAPS. I have a 4.2 weighted GPA and a 30 ACT (took it 8 times and raised my score 9 pts) but didn’t have the opportunity to take many AP’s in HS since I go to a smaller school. Not sure if they look for people with lower test scores and GPA or if i’m in the ballpark. Thanks and all the best.

 

[AFBoyMom]

I am not sure any one will be able to give you a definitive answer as to what does/does not qualify you for a prep school or prep school scholarship... What I have heard is that they are offering prep school/scholarships to individuals they feel could use the extra support; whether academically, leadership or conditioning; to be successful at the SA. Therefore, you could be an ideal candidate as a student that hasn't been introduced to college level (AP/IB) courses in high school.

That said, I have also seen on this forum that some feel that the difference between prep school at an SA (USAFA Prep/NAPS...) is typically given to students that need additional oversight in the extra support to be successful; whereas those that get prep scholarships are typically students that demonstrate academic rigor or success rising to the challenge of prep school independently...

Again, I have not idea if either of these responses or thoughts are accurate... however, they seem like good logic...

 

[Bennett611]

I believe the prep school is mainly for people who do not qualify academically for the academy, that being said, with your lack of high-level classes you may be considered for the prep school. You have an excellent GPA but that is not all that matters academically, they look at the specific classes you take and if you are only taking grade-level courses you will most likely not be considered a strong candidate for the academy, and that could result in you attending the prep school

 

[sanman]

I believe the prep school is mainly for people who do not qualify academically for the academy, that being said, with your lack of high-level classes you may be considered for the prep school. You have an excellent GPA but that is not all that matters academically, they look at the specific classes you take and if you are only taking grade-level courses you will most likely not be considered a strong candidate for the academy, and that could result in you attending the prep school

People get assigned to Prep for a number of reasons. Although academics is one of them it is not the only reason by any means. Also if you are not considered a strong candidate for the academy you won't be offered Prep. Only strong candidates are offered full appointments or prep appointments, some strong candidates even get declines.

 

[AFBoyMom]

As a parent of a kid that received a prep offer - I hate reading these posts that minimize their qualifications. I agree that the prep school is intended to strengthen something about them - academic, leadership, physical... however; these cadet candidates are highly accomplished applicants as well. Most have been accepted to some pretty impressive schools.

I guess I am just saying we shouldn’t try to minimize these offers... it is a significant opportunity and just as special to the cadet candidates that get these offers!!

 

[Capt MJ]

My view over the years has crystallized to:

The SA wants this particular candidate so much they are willing to both wait a year and invest funds either via committing taxpayer money to a NAPS seat or asking the independent Naval Academy Foundation non-profit to donate scholarship money for a prep school.