What are some steps I need to be taking right now to make being accepted into the academy a reality?

[Karsten Murphy]

Hi,
So I have an interesting situation. I skipped the 6th and the 8th grade. I also have had straight A’s for every semester of high school so far (I’m currently a junior at 14 years old). My dad and my grandfather were officers in the Air Force. I am also an officer in the Civil Air Patrol. I also have 400 hours of fixed-wing experience in my logbook. Unfortunately my high school offers no sports programs which worries me because it seems like they are very important for points on my application. Would me being an officer in the C.A.P (I’m also the cadet commander of my squadron if that makes a difference) and my strong academics plus my family heritage and flight experience be enough to get accepted into the USCGA? I also plan on applying for the Merchant Marine Academy as well as the naval academy. What should I be doing right now to help my application? I have researched the AIM program but my awkward timing doesn’t quite meet the criteria. You have to be 16-18 and be going into your senior year but I’m almost 15 and will be going into my senior year. I plan on contacting my admissions officer tomorrow and ask if it is possible for me to have any opportunity of attending the AIM program. What are some other programs that I should be looking into? What are some things I could get ahead of the power curve on? This has all I have been able to think about for a while now and it is stressing me out. It is currently my life’s mission to get accepted into a service academy.

 

[ProudMom7]

Academics, Leadership, and Athletics are the 3 main areas that CGA looks at.
Academics: You say you have straight As and you skipped 2 grades. What classes are you taking? Are you taking the highest level STEM classes (Calculus, Chemistry, Physics) that your school offers? What about SAT/ACT scores?
Leadership: This doesn't have to be a traditional Captain of a team or President of a club position, but you should be showing leadership in some way. You mention being an officer in the CAP, which is great. But you need to be able to convey what you've done in that position (or others) to demonstrate leadership. Just holding the position isn't enough.
Athletics: You say your school does not offer sports. A majority of cadets have not only played varsity sports in high school but were captains of their team. CGA likes applicants who participate in sports because not only does it show they have athletic ability, but it shows they can put in the time and effort to stick with something, it shows they can work with others toward a common goal, it often provides an opportunity to demonstrate leadership. What about club sports? What about more individual sports like Martial Arts or running? Have you taken a practice CFA to see how you would score?

Regarding your age. The application states you have to be 17-22 on the last Monday in June. I don't know if there are waivers for age or not, but you could contact the Admissions Officer for your area and ask your questions. If this is something you really want, you might need to take 1-2 years of regular college first where you could take classes that mimic the 4/c schedule at USCGA.

 

[Karsten Murphy]

So currently I’m taking integrated math 3 and chemistry as my STEM classes. I suppose I could take precalculus in my senior year if that would help. My school is pretty crappy so it doesn’t offer any real STEM classes to take. I am going to enroll in an SAT ACT prep course soon. I have not taken those tests yet. I am showing leadership in the CAP by being the commander. I’m planning months in advance, I’m ensuring my staff is meeting deadlines, I’m supervising the cadets, and I debrief and mentor my staff. I don’t know if that’s enough from what you’re saying though. I feel slightly screwed with no sports available. That’s making me super nervous and stressed. I haven’t taken the practice CFA but I will soon. I don’t think I’ll have any problems because I have nearly Air Force academy worthy scores every time my squadron does PT. Thanks for the insight.

 

[SwimMom27]

So currently I’m taking integrated math 3 and chemistry as my STEM classes. I suppose I could take precalculus in my senior year if that would help. My school is pretty crappy so it doesn’t offer any real STEM classes to take. I am going to enroll in an SAT ACT prep course soon. I have not taken those tests yet. I am showing leadership in the CAP by being the commander. I’m planning months in advance, I’m ensuring my staff is meeting deadlines, I’m supervising the cadets, and I debrief and mentor my staff. I don’t know if that’s enough from what you’re saying though. I feel slightly screwed with no sports available. That’s making me super nervous and stressed. I haven’t taken the practice CFA but I will soon. I don’t think I’ll have any problems because I have nearly Air Force academy worthy scores every time my squadron does PT. Thanks for the insight.

I think you should definitely have PreCalculus under your belt in HS. Most applicants are taking pre calculus their Junior year of HS and AP Calculus their Senior year of HS.

 

[27BearDad]

So currently I’m taking integrated math 3 and chemistry as my STEM classes. I suppose I could take precalculus in my senior year if that would help. My school is pretty crappy so it doesn’t offer any real STEM classes to take. I am going to enroll in an SAT ACT prep course soon. I have not taken those tests yet. I am showing leadership in the CAP by being the commander. I’m planning months in advance, I’m ensuring my staff is meeting deadlines, I’m supervising the cadets, and I debrief and mentor my staff. I don’t know if that’s enough from what you’re saying though. I feel slightly screwed with no sports available. That’s making me super nervous and stressed. I haven’t taken the practice CFA but I will soon. I don’t think I’ll have any problems because I have nearly Air Force academy worthy scores every time my squadron does PT. Thanks for the insight.

It's awesome to have clear goals at 14, but don't let it stress you! Your situation is a bit unique, but time is on your side! Take advantage of it!

First things first, I would contact your admissions officer for sure (link below). Establish a dialogue, and explain your situation. Some AO's are more responsive than others. Be persistent.

https://uscga.edu/admissions/admissions-officers/

Check into the AIM summer program. Age range for AIM 16-18, but maybe they can help you with a waiver/exception depending on timing. In lieu of AIM, there are several different programs to visit/experience the academy such as Bear's Day or Cadet for a day.

Chances are you're going to need a gap year or two before you're eligible to apply. This could actually be a great thing! If you're high school is weak on STEM classes and sports, a year or two in college may really help your overall application. You'll need to be taking Chemistry and Physics in high school as well as pre-calc at the minimum, but ideally Calculus. AP or honors versions of these classes are preferred but if you take these classes at a college level, it means a lot. Regarding college, you have a few options. Depending where you live you could go to a community college or junior college nearby as a more inexpensive option, enroll in a regular 4 year college somewhere, OR consider "self prep" at a military college like MMI, GMC, etc.

CGA is test optional, but like you mentioned, take a prep course and take the ACT/SAT as often as necessary to get the score you want.

Sports do not necessarily have to be at the high school level. Are there any sort of club or rec league sports where you live? Can you swim? See if there's a summer swim league near you or a club swim team or a YMCA swim team. Even if you aren't that great of a swimmer, it doesn't matter. It's an individual sport this would be a great way to get in even better shape and prepare to easily pass the swim test at the academy. Other than that, maybe a running club or some sort of martial arts? The PFE for the CGA is a little different (and easier to practice for) than the CFA for Navy, Merchant Marine and the other academies. It's just cadence pushups, sit ups and a 1.5 mile run. All things you can easily work on daily.

I was going to recommend checking into Sea Scouts which would also give you the ability to join the Coast Guard Auxiliary at the age of 14. All of this is just something to demonstrate interest in the service. However, with you already heavily involved with CAP, they may be a little to much. See what other kind of volunteer opportunities there are around your community, and within that, do something tangible that shows action and sets you apart.

I can completely understand why you are dead set on a service academy. However, do remember there are other options to commission in the CG. OCS, MARGRAD (option out of certain maritime schools) and DCSS (eligible at specific colleges with corps of cadets) are all commissioning programs that may help keep you on your more accelerated timeline.

Good luck to you!!

 

[Sierra]

You could go MARGRAD, graduate in three years if you are as good at school as you sound, and have a commission at 19-20. And be a better DWO than any academy grad. Or you could start margrad, go to the academy after 2 years, and commission at the normal age.

Or do junior college.

But you can’t go to the academy under 17. So you have plenty of time to find some sport to do and take calc.

Just make sure you take that calc course before going to the academy

 

[Karsten Murphy]

I think you should definitely have PreCalculus under your belt in HS. Most applicants are taking pre calculus their Junior year of HS and AP Calculus their Senior year of HS.

Well that's a problem. My school doesn't have anything past precalculus. I'm kinda screwed.

 

[Karsten Murphy]

It's awesome to have clear goals at 14, but don't let it stress you! Your situation is a bit unique, but time is on your side! Take advantage of it!

First things first, I would contact your admissions officer for sure (link below). Establish a dialogue, and explain your situation. Some AO's are more responsive than others. Be persistent.

https://uscga.edu/admissions/admissions-officers/

Check into the AIM summer program. Age range for AIM 16-18, but maybe they can help you with a waiver/exception depending on timing. In lieu of AIM, there are several different programs to visit/experience the academy such as Bear's Day or Cadet for a day.

Chances are you're going to need a gap year or two before you're eligible to apply. This could actually be a great thing! If you're high school is weak on STEM classes and sports, a year or two in college may really help your overall application. You'll need to be taking Chemistry and Physics in high school as well as pre-calc at the minimum, but ideally Calculus. AP or honors versions of these classes are preferred but if you take these classes at a college level, it means a lot. Regarding college, you have a few options. Depending where you live you could go to a community college or junior college nearby as a more inexpensive option, enroll in a regular 4 year college somewhere, OR consider "self prep" at a military college like MMI, GMC, etc.

CGA is test optional, but like you mentioned, take a prep course and take the ACT/SAT as often as necessary to get the score you want.

Sports do not necessarily have to be at the high school level. Are there any sort of club or rec league sports where you live? Can you swim? See if there's a summer swim league near you or a club swim team or a YMCA swim team. Even if you aren't that great of a swimmer, it doesn't matter. It's an individual sport this would be a great way to get in even better shape and prepare to easily pass the swim test at the academy. Other than that, maybe a running club or some sort of martial arts? The PFE for the CGA is a little different (and easier to practice for) than the CFA for Navy, Merchant Marine and the other academies. It's just cadence pushups, sit ups and a 1.5 mile run. All things you can easily work on daily.

I was going to recommend checking into Sea Scouts which would also give you the ability to join the Coast Guard Auxiliary at the age of 14. All of this is just something to demonstrate interest in the service. However, with you already heavily involved with CAP, they may be a little to much. See what other kind of volunteer opportunities there are around your community, and within that, do something tangible that shows action and sets you apart.

I can completely understand why you are dead set on a service academy. However, do remember there are other options to commission in the CG. OCS, MARGRAD (option out of certain maritime schools) and DCSS (eligible at specific colleges with corps of cadets) are all commissioning programs that may help keep you on your more accelerated timeline.

Good luck to you!!

My school doesn't have AP math classes or anything past precalc. Would a community college actually transfer? It would surely be convenient because the largest community college in California is right across the street from me. Thankfully my school has a physics class which I will definitely take. I'll have to research any sports around me. I am aware of other options but I'm very dead set on going to an academy. I think about it every second. I'm planning on applying for ROTC as well but I wouldn't have the greatest chance of getting a pilot slot. There's the possibility that I end up on a cutter. I thought my academics were very strong but apparently they're relatively weak .

 

[ProudMom7]

My school doesn't have AP math classes or anything past precalc. Would a community college actually transfer? It would surely be convenient because the largest community college in California is right across the street from me. Thankfully my school has a physics class which I will definitely take. I'll have to research any sports around me. I am aware of other options but I'm very dead set on going to an academy. I think about it every second. I'm planning on applying for ROTC as well but I wouldn't have the greatest chance of getting a pilot slot. There's the possibility that I end up on a cutter. I thought my academics were very strong but apparently they're relatively weak .

As others have said, due to your age, you probably will need to do a year or two of college anyway. So taking Calc, Chem, and Physics in college and getting good grades will be helpful. For those that apply directly from high school, the high school will send in a school profile so that CGA is aware of what courses are available at your school. You aren't penalized for your school not having certain classes or sports, but you need to take the initiative to fill those gaps on your own.

 

[Iblameej]

I would take calculus and physics at a CC, if possible. Best of luck. Have a good backup plan too!

 

[Karsten Murphy]

As others have said, due to your age, you probably will need to do a year or two of college anyway. So taking Calc, Chem, and Physics in college and getting good grades will be helpful. For those that apply directly from high school, the high school will send in a school profile so that CGA is aware of what courses are available at your school. You aren't penalized for your school not having certain classes or sports, but you need to take the initiative to fill those gaps on your own.

Would intramurals count?

 

[Iblameej]

Would intramurals count?

Yes. And even something like Cross fit, karate, dance, etc. Make sure you rock your PFE too, just so there’s no question if you are in shape due to not being on a team. I think there was data from a zoom that showed 75% of the class of 2027 were varsity athletes and 51% attended AIM.

 

[27BearDad]

I'm planning on applying for ROTC as well but I wouldn't have the greatest chance of getting a pilot slot. There's the possibility that I end up on a cutter

Remember also that even if you don't get a flight billet the first time, you can always put a package in for your next tour. Coast Guard seems big on people who stay focused and keep trying.

Curious, you've mentioned Navy, Merchant Marine and if course Coast Guard. Your family has an Air Force background...any interest in the Air Force academy? I'm guessing you may think it's because it's harder to get a flight billet there (because everyone wants to fly)? From what I hear from friends with kids at AF academy if you go in with flight experience and play your cards right, the odds are fairly good. Again, I'm absolutely no authority, but it's what I've heard.

 

[Academician]

I have a student in a similar situation as you. She won an ROTC scholarship and will then apply for the SAs as a college freshman. Depending on your birthday, you may have to wait until you are a college sophomore as you must be 17 years old by July 1 of the year you enter the Academy. Good luck with your path to college and one of the SAs!

By the way, if this is your real name @Karsten Murphy, then the Forum advises that you change your alias.

 

[Northwoods]

If you want a flight billet study mechanical engineering or a similar topic. The military prefers their pilots to have a strong engineering foundation.

 

[Karsten Murphy]

If you want a flight billed study mechanical engineering or a similar topic. The military prefers their pilots to have a strong engineering foundation.

When would I be able to study those topics?

 

[Northwoods]

When would I be able to study those topics?

In college. That is a major you would declare. Look up the mechanical engineering curriculum for the CGA and other schools. Make sure you're ready for the course load.

My undergrad was aerospace engineering. Basically mechanical engineering with a focus on airplanes and spacecraft. Freshman year was a lot of Calculus, physics, and such.

 

[Karsten Murphy]

In college. That is a major you would declare. Look up the mechanical engineering curriculum for the CGA and other schools. Make sure you're ready for the course load.

My undergrad was aerospace engineering. Basically mechanical engineering with a focus on airplanes and spacecraft. Freshman year was a lot of Calculus, physics, and such.

Ohhh so you made that your major in the academy. Thank you for the advice. It helps that I’m interested in the things that major requires. I have a question about sports. Would being on a swim team but not being the captain help at all? Also, this might sound strange but would being on a competition fly fishing team help? I would assume that it could because it is physically demanding. One last thing, there is a local sailing club I could join. Would that be something the admissions officers like to see?

 

[Northwoods]

Not to be discouraging but if you were my kid, all else being equal, I'd suggest writing off the CGA. Not because you wouldn't get in but because you have to spin your wheels for 2 years (minimum) to even apply. You sound too smart and driven for that. My advice would be to do a year or two at a community College, then transfer to a university and get an engineering degree. Or if you can afford it (there are tons of scholarships to help that process) go straight from HS to university. Then go OCS to get your commission. You could get said commission by 19 that way.

The CGA would have you going to a CC or one of their prep schools for 2 years. Then, because they don't do transfer credits (they do but it's very limited and won't speed up your graduation) you'll be 21+ by the time you commission. Also you'd wind up retaking a lot of what you took those 2 years you were waiting to be old enough to apply. Not a tragedy but most kids would not be happy with that.

If you still want to go to the CGA I'll cheerlead for you just like all other kids. I just want you to think about the good, and not so good, aspects of whatever decision you make. Everything in life is a tradeoff. Make sure you're good with whatever you're giving up to get what it is you want.

 

[Karsten Murphy]

Not to be discouraging but if you were my kid, all else being equal, I'd suggest writing off the CGA. Not because you wouldn't get in but because you have to spin your wheels for 2 years (minimum) to even apply. You sound too smart and driven for that. My advice would be to do a year or two at a community College, then transfer to a university and get an engineering degree. Or if you can afford it (there are tons of scholarships to help that process) go straight from HS to university. Then go OCS to get your commission. You could get said commission by 19 that way.

The CGA would have you going to a CC or one of their prep schools for 2 years. Then, because they don't do transfer credits (they do but it's very limited and won't speed up your graduation) you'll be 21+ by the time you commission. Also you'd wind up retaking a lot of what you took those 2 years you were waiting to be old enough to apply. Not a tragedy but most kids would not be happy with that.

If you still want to go to the CGA I'll cheerlead for you just like all other kids. I just want you to think about the good, and not so good, aspects of whatever decision you make. Everything in life is a tradeoff. Make sure you're good with whatever you're giving up to get what it is you want.

Thank you sir. That was the most real response I’ve received. I haven’t stopped to consider my other options and opportunities thoroughly. I’ll have to consider the other programs and weigh the pros and cons to see what would fit my mission best. You made some very good points that I need to think on. One thing in my mission is for certain, I want to be commissioned into the Coast Guard. Thank you for the support.