USAFA will do NOTHING, or virtually nothing, per their message to ALO's, prior to 1 NOV...and that's the "early action" deadline, isn't it?
And as others have posted, without a nomination you can't be appointed. Yes, you can receive an LOA without a nomination but that letter will state that you must receive a nomination or it goes away. And LOA's are NOT common with USAFA. They do give them out...but not in large numbers.
After working with/for USAFA as an ALO for 19 years what I've learned is this:
Candidates completely overstress themselves with the "how long until I hear something..." (You'll hear when you hear, sadly)
And USAFA is the LAST ACADEMY to make selections. (we lose some amazing young men and women to the other SA's because of this)
It's a LONG process you are in for; accept that, do your very best ALL YEAR, and it will be what it is.
I realize this is not the answer you wanted...but it is reality.
Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83