Do you have to have a congressional nomination in order to be considered for usmaps?
in general would you say that when the admissions board reccomends someone for USMAPS it is more favorable to people who need to boost their GPA or SAT/ACT scores?
Yes, generally, although you can also have the situation of a great candidate with less than desirable, but develop-able physical skills in need of a tune up.
At least that's what I've read.
so yes for emphasis on SAT/ACT or GPA?
Many people will tell you I'm wrong with this opinion but, standardized test scores are paramount in the selection process, IMVHO. I do believe the whole person concept is used to some varying degrees but, when the rubber meets the road, it's SAT's and ACT's.
If some candidates are given LOA's pending DoDMERB, and/or "Academically Qualified", that tells you that they (admissions) have a benchmark for scores. I would say 3.0 GPA would be minimum they accept. Again...JMVHO
but you will have to get one after that.. My daughter received a nomination, but will have to get a new one for next year's school year (after prep).