Important military and patriotic days:

• D-Day–June 6th: the Allied invasion of Europe
• Flag Day–June 14th
• Army Birthday–June 14
• Birthday of Navy Hospital Corpsman–June 17
• USCG Auxiliary Birthday–June 23rd
• PTSD Awareness Day–June 27th
• 3 Posts about I-Day
  • Going to USNA? Ready for I-Day–Part II
  • USNA I-Day For Parents
  • You Know You’re a Plebe when…

Here are some articles to help you through June:

• You Know You’re a Plebe Parent if…
• Plebe Summer starts
• Plebe Summer Care Packages
• Summer like a Midshipman

Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:

June To Do List for USNA Applicants

More articles worth reading:

• Gen. Patton’s Address to the Third Army
• Must-read Books Before Entering USNA
• Popular Excuses for NOT attending USNA
• Give Me a Midshipman Parent and I’ll Give you a Navy Football Fan

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2025 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, an Amazon Vine Voice, adjunct professor at UC and CSU,  and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:

First Steps:

If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment in time and money because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more before achieving your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.

Here’s a book to get you started:

Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application

From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy their first choice college.

Seniors–Get a Passport

You’ll need one eventually, and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.

Seniors, Check your application status often

Permits to Report go out until I-Day. If you get one, notify the Admissions Office of your intention to accept or decline immediately. It’ll take through I-Day for all Permits to reach mailboxes. I’ve known seniors who didn’t hear until right before I-Day, so don’t give up. Check online to find out what’s missing from your application and rectify it. Check with your BGO, too. He’ll direct you to solutions for any shortfalls.

Juniors–Preliminary USNA Application Available

As of April 1st, the Preliminary Application to USNA (and probably the other military academies) is available on USNA website. It is quick, brief, nothing like the final document. If you’ve made the decision you want to go to USNA, fill it out. At that point, you’ll be in the system and you and the Naval Academy can determine if this is a good fit.

Juniors–request a Congressional Nomination Package

These are due in Fall, with interviews in November/December. Get one from your Congressperson and both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate.

Mail the packages to the Senators. Often, they do all of their selections via mail–no personal interviews.

For the Congressperson, hand carry it to them. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview in November/December.

For more on the Congressional Nomination, check out these articles:

• Get a Congressional Nomination to a Service Academy
• How to Prepare for the Congressional Interview–Part I
• How to Prepare for the Congressional Interview–Part II

Juniors–Prepare for CFA

You can take this as soon as you have a candidate number. For information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, click here and then here. This will be given during Summer Seminar. If you pass it, you’re done. If you don’t, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared. It’ll feel good in July to have that out of the way.

Here’s a good quick video overview:

Juniors–In NASS? Arrange Time Off School

By May, most of the military academy Summer Seminar programs are closed. If accepted, don’t worry if it ends up in the middle of finals or other big academic events. The Military wants to know you can get everything done in not enough time. Figure out how to make it work. Talk to teachers, guidance counselors, parents. Reschedule finals or big tests. Do whatever it takes to make it work. This is a good opportunity to show you are a leader with a take-charge attitude.

For more information on USNA Summer Seminar, read this post.

Soph/Frosh

Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.

Tour the Yard

Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis.

Take SAT and ACT

Take these as often as possible until you hit the score you need. There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer a PSAT-type test for free. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.

Tour a warship

These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. First and foremost, you want to be sure that a Naval Academy choice is right for you. Seeing how officers work on a Naval vessel is a good idea.

Create your list of college choices

Applications aren’t due until September (early apps) or November/December for the rest. Be prepared. This time, three months before the earliest decision, is the time to determine which colleges serve you best

Say hi to military reps who show up on your campus

Chat with them. Pick their brains. Find out what they can tell you about life in the military. It’s a different world and any way you can assure yourself it’s for you, do it.

Focus on your unique skill

With summer comes less academic work. A good time to get back in touch with whatever it is that sets you apart from others. Military academies like that side of you. They want to know you can do everything, not just academics and sports.

Be a leader

Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.

Create your resume

List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman and keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.

Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization with columns and rows:

Hone these critical skills

All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:

• How to solve problems
• How to manage your time
• How to prioritize
• How to get along with people
• How to think

Read Books

Check out the Marine Corps summer reading list

Continue Community Service

Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you can do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.

Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?

• Read the qualifications of a Midshipman here. See what you think.
• Read this post on Why We Serve
• Read this Qualifications of a Naval Officer from Reef Points
• Read about the USNA Honor Concept
• Read Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…
• Read 9 Secrets for Getting in USNA
• Read Life the USNA Way

–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, an Amazon Vine Voice, adjunct professor at UC and CSU,  and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

By now, you’ve finished your application. You have two big jobs remaining: Prepare physically and keep your academics strong.

Important military and patriotic days:

• Loyalty Day–May 1st
• Silver Star Service Banner Day–May 1st
• Public Service Recognition Week–first full week of May
• V-E Day–May 8th
• Military Spouse Day–2nd Friday in May
• Armed Forces Week – May 9-15, 2021 – (Week prior to Armed Forces Day, the 3rd Sunday in May)
• Armed Forces Day–third Saturday in May
• Maritime Day–May 22nd
• Memorial Day–May 30th
• National Military Appreciation Month

Here are some articles to help you through May:

• Herndon Climb (every May)
• Are You Going SWO After Graduation?
• Didn’t Get In? Try NAPS.
• Must-read Books Before Arriving at USNA
• Plebe Summer–it’s Coming

Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:

May To Do List for USNA Applicants

More articles worth reading:

• Signs you fit the Military lifestyle
• Make Your Academy Dream Come True
• Why We Serve
• What is an American?

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, an Amazon Vine Voice, adjunct professor at UC and CSU,  and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:

First Steps:

If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment in time and money because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more before achieving your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.

Here’s one book to get you started:

Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application

From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy their first choice college.

Seniors–Accepted?

You should have received your Permit to Report. All appointees should notify the Admissions Office of their intention to accept or decline by May 1st.

Seniors–Accepted? Get a Passport

You’ll need one eventually, and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.

More ideas? Read this post on what to do when you’ve been accepted to one of the finest higher education establishments in the nation.

Juniors–Preliminary USNA Application Available

As of April 1st, the Preliminary Application to USNA (and probably the other military academies) is available on USNA website. It is quick, brief, nothing like the final document. If you’ve made the decision you want to go to USNA, fill it out. At that point, you’ll be in the system and you and the Naval Academy can determine if this is a good fit.

Juniors–In NASS? Arrange Time Off School

By May, most of the military academy Summer Seminar programs are closed. Don’t worry if the Summer Seminar ends up in the middle of finals or other big academic events. The Military wants to know you can get everything done in not enough time. Figure out how to make it work. Talk to teachers, guidance counselors, parents. Reschedule finals or big tests. Do whatever it takes to make it work. This is a good opportunity to show you are a leader with a take-charge attitude.

Here’s a video from one of the 2025 sessions:

Juniors–Request a Congressional Nomination Package

These are due in Fall, with interviews in November/December. Get one from your Congressperson and both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate.

Mail the packages to the Senators. Often, they do all of their selections via mail–no personal interviews.

For the Congressperson, hand-carry it to them. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview in November/December.

Juniors–Prepare for CFA

Juniors: You can take this as soon as you have a candidate number. For information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, click here and then here. This will be given during Summer Seminar. If you pass it, you’re done. If you don’t, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared. It’ll feel good in July to have that out of the way.

Here’s a longish video on how to improve your CFA scores if you need to:

Take SAT and ACT

If you’re over 1400, you’re doing great. If you’re not, take it as often as possible. There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer a PSAT-type test for free. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.

Soph/Frosh–Attend an Academy Night

These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.

Soph/Frosh–Go to a USNA Forum

Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.

Tour the Yard

Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis.

General Admissions Questions

Contact USNA Admissions using this link.

Tour a warship

These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. First and foremost, you want to be sure that a Naval Academy choice is right for you. Seeing how officers work on a Naval vessel is a good idea.

Create your list of college choices

Applications aren’t due until September (early applications) or November/December for the rest. Be prepared. This month, well-before before the earliest decision, is the time to determine which colleges serve you best

Say hi to military reps who show up on your campus

Chat with them. Pick their brains. Find out what they can tell you about life in the military. It’s a different world and any way you can assure yourself it’s for you, do it.

Focus on your unique skill

Even as finals approach, stay in touch with whatever it is that sets you apart from others. Military academies like that side of you. They want to know you can do everything, not just academics and sports.

Be a leader

Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.

Create your resume

List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman, but if you’re older than that, do it now. And keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.

Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization with columns and rows:

Hone these critical skills

All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:

• How to solve problems
• How to manage your time
• How to prioritize
• How to get along with people
• How to think

Read Books

Check out the Marine Corps summer reading list

Continue Community Service

All grades: Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you can do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.

Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?

• Read the qualifications of a Midshipman here. See what you think.
• Read this post on Why We Serve
• Read Qualifications of a Naval Officer from Reef Points
• Read about the USNA Honor Concept
• Read Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…
• Read 9 Secrets for Getting in USNA
• Read Life the USNA Way

–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, an Amazon Vine Voice, adjunct professor at UC and CSU,  and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

By now, you’ve finished your BGO Interview and attended a Candidate Weekend Visit. You have one big job remaining: Keep your grades solid, your attitude positive, and your goals clear.

Important military and patriotic days in April:

• Gold Star Spouses Day–April 5
• Army Day – April 6
• Appomattox Day – April 9
• National Former POW Recognition Day–April 9
• Air Force Reserve Birthday–April 14
• Army Reserve Birthday–April 23

If you’re just starting to think about attending the US Naval Academy, here’s your guide to making that dream come true:

Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application

Now check the April ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:

April To Do List for USNA Applicants

If you’ve been accepted or are the parent of a child who has been accepted, it’s time to start thinking about Plebe Summer:

• Plebe Summer–It’s coming!
• You Know You’re a Plebe when…
• Plebe Summer Care Packages: What to Send
• You Know You’re a Plebe Parent if…
• 33 Rules (aka Rates) Plebes Must Follow
• What’s My Plebe Doing Today?

More articles worth reading:

• Make your Naval Academy Dream Come True
• 23 Books to read
• Signs that you fit the military lifestyle

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next

First Steps:

If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money to achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.

Here’s a book to get you started:

Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application

From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy their first choice college.

Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application

Check the binder (print or digital) you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your BGO. In fact, stay in close touch with him/her at this stage in your application process. S/he’ll be interviewing you and passing his/her recommendation on to the Admittance board.

Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.

Seniors–follow up on the Letters of Recommendation from teachers

Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.

Seniors–Blue-and-Gold Interview

The B&G (Blue and Gold) Interview allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to ensure that they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending on the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your B&G Officer ‘likes’ you. It’s his job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.

Seniors–Accepted? Get a Passport

You’ll need one eventually and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.

More ideas? Read this post on what to do when you’ve been accepted to one of the finest higher education establishments in the nation.

Juniors–In NASS? Arrange Time Off School

By April, most of the military academy Summer Seminar programs are closed. If you have an application in or are accepted and want more information, click for NASS, AFASS. Don’t worry if the Summer Seminar ends up in the middle of finals or other big academic events. The Military wants to know you can get everything done in not enough time. Figure out how to make it work. Talk to teachers, guidance counselors, parents. Reschedule finals or big tests. Do whatever it takes to make it work. This is a good opportunity to show you are a leader with a take-charge attitude.

For more information on USNA Summer Seminar, read this post.

Juniors–Preliminary USNA Application Available

As of April 1st, the Preliminary Application to USNA (and probably the other military academies) is available on USNA website. It is quick, brief, nothing like the final document. If you’re considering attending USNA, fill it out. At that point, you’ll be in the system and you and the Naval Academy can determine if this is a good fit.

Juniors–request a Congressional Nomination Package

If you are an official candidate, get a Congressional Nomination Package from your Congressperson and both Senators. Fill them out. Double check to see that everything is accurate. Mail the packages to the Senators. Often, they do all of their selections via mail–no personal interviews. For the Congressperson, hand-carry it to them. When you drop it off, try to meet the aide responsible for this activity. Say hi, chat for a moment. S/he may remember you from the Academy Night, and will definitely remember you when you come in for the interview in November/December.

Juniors–Create your list of college choices

Applications aren’t due until September (early apps) or November/December for the rest. Be prepared. This time, six months before the earliest decision, is the time to determine which colleges serve you best

Juniors–Take the SAT and ACT

If you’re over 1400, you’re doing great. If you’re not, take it as often as possible. There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer a PSAT-type test for free. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.

Soph/Frosh–Attend an Academy Night

These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.

Soph/Frosh–Go to a USNA Forum

Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.

Tour the Yard

Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis.

Tour a warship

These tours are offered through your BGO or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. First and foremost, you want to be sure that a Naval Academy choice is right for you. Seeing how officers work on a Naval vessel is a good idea.

Create your resume

List all of your activities, awards, and community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman. Keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.

Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization with columns and rows:

Hone these critical skills

All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:

• How to solve problems
• How to manage your time
• How to prioritize
• How to get along with people
• How to think

Read Books

Check out the Marine Corps summer reading list.

Say hi to military reps who show up on your campus

Chat with them. Pick their brains. Find out what they can tell you about life in the military. It’s a different world and any way you can assure yourself it’s for you, do it.

Focus on your unique skill

Even as school heats up and time gets short, stay in touch with whatever it is that sets you apart from others. Military academies like that side of you. They want to know you can do everything, not just academics and sports.

Be a Leader

Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.

Continue Community Service

Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you can do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.

Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?

• Read this post on Why We Serve
• Read this Qualifications of a Naval Officer from Reef Points
• Read about the USNA Honor Concept
• Read Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…
• Read 9 Secrets for Getting in USNA
• Read Life the USNA Way

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education,  and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

By now, you’ve finished everything and are waiting to hear. Your only remaining job is to continue with the traits of leadership, aggressiveness, physicality that made you a good candidate to start with.

But, just to be sure, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date:

March To Do List for USNA Applicants

Important USNA, military and patriotic days:

• March 1st–Candidate Section of the application is due!
• March 3–Navy Reserve Birthday
• March 3–National Anthem Day
• March 4–Hug a GI Day
• March 5–Alamo Day 
• March 5–Seabee Birthday
• March 9–First Battle of the Ironclads
• March 13–K9 Veterans Day
• March 25–Medal of Honor Day
• March 29–National Vietnam War Veterans Day
• March 31–NASS applications close 

More articles worth reading:

• How to Think (one of 5 critical skills for future USNA applicants)
• Why We Serve
• USNA and Summer STEM
• Don’t shoot fast, shoot good and other bits of wisdom from a military life
• OCS–an Option

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next

First Steps:

If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.

Here’s a book to get you started:

Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the USNA Application

From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to-earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy their first choice college.

Seniors–Follow up on application

Check the binder you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your BGO. In fact, stay in close touch with him/her. If s/he hasn’t already, s/he’ll be interviewing you and passing his/her recommendation on to the Admittance board.

Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.

March 1st–Candidate Section of the application was due!

Seniors–follow up on teacher LoR

Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure the Letters of Recommendation get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.

Seniors–Blue-and-Gold Interview

The B&G (Blue and Gold) Interview allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to ensure that they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending on the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your BGO ‘likes’ you. It’s his/her job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.

Frosh/Soph: To find your Blue and Gold Officer Area Coordinator, please click here.

Seniors–Accepted? Get a Passport

You’ll need one eventually and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.

More ideas? Read this post on what to do when you’ve been accepted to one of the finest higher education establishments in the nation.

Seniors–Check application status often

Acceptances are out–not all of them. That’ll take through May, in rare cases June. Check online to find out what’s missing from your application and rectify it. Check with your BGO, too. S/he’ll direct you to solutions for any shortfalls.

Juniors–Apply for Summer Seminar

USNA, USAFA and West Point all offer Summer Seminars, an opportunity for seniors to spend a week on the campus seeing if it feels right. And, it gives administrators a chance to watch and evaluate prospective students.

At USNA it’s called Naval Academy Summer Seminar (NASS). Here’s the blurb on USNA’s website:

The United States Naval Academy Summer Seminar is a fast-paced, six-day experience for high achievers who have completed their junior year in high school. Summer Seminar teaches you about life at the Naval Academy, where academics, athletics, and professional training play equally important roles in developing our nation’s leaders.  If you think that you may be interested in pursuing an appointment to one of the nation’s service academies and serving your country as an officer, you should seriously consider attending the Naval Academy’s Summer Seminar.

NASS applications close March 31.

Click for information on West Point’s Summer Leaders Program (SLE).

If you’re applying for USAFA, their Summer Seminar applications closed end of January.

Juniors–Your college choices

Applications aren’t due until September (early apps) or November/December for the rest. Be prepared. This time, six months before the earliest decision, is the time to determine which colleges serve you best

Juniors–Take SAT and ACT

If you’re over 1400, you’re doing great. If not, take it as often as possible. There’s a trick to the test that you’ll figure out as you take it over and over. A lot of colleges offer a PSAT-type test for free,. Take advantage of those opportunities. That’ll keep costs down and provide feedback on what you should work on.

Frosh/Soph–Get a SSN

You must have a Social Security card to apply to the Naval Academy. If you don’t have the card, get it.

Frosh/Soph–Attend an Academy Night

These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go.

Soph/Frosh–Go to a USNA Forum

Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.

Tour the Yard

Take it. You want to be sure the Naval Academy is right for you.

Create your resume

List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman. Keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.

Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info) in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization of columns and rows:

Tour a warship

These tours are offered through your BGO or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. First and foremost, you want to be sure that a Naval Academy choice is right for you. Seeing how officers work on a Naval vessel is a good idea.

Hone these critical skills

All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman or a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:

• How to solve problems
• How to manage your time
• How to prioritize
• How to get along with people
• How to think

Read Books

Check out the Marine Corps summer reading list.

Greet military reps on your campus

Chat with them. Pick their brains. Find out what they can tell you about life in the military. It’s a different world and any way you can assure yourself it’s for you, do it.

Focus on your unique skill

Even as school heats up and time gets short, stay in touch with whatever it is that sets you apart from others. Military academies like that side of you. They want to know you can do everything, not just academics and sports.

Be a Leader

Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.

Continue Community Service

Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you can do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.

Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?

• Read this post on Why We Serve
• Read this Qualifications of a Naval Officer from Reef Points
• Read about the USNA Honor Concept
• Read Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…
• Read 9 Secrets for Getting in USNA
• Read Life the USNA Way

–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application. If you would like to buy this book from Amazon, click here:

Building a Midshipman

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

Important military and patriotic days:

• National Freedom Day – February 1
• USO Birthday–February 4th
• National Salute to Veteran Patients–week of February 14
• Remember the Maine Day (U.S.S. Maine) – February 15
• Coast Guard Reserves Birthday – February 19
• Iwo Jima Day – February 19
• President’s Day – February 21 (Third Monday in February)

If you have suggestions for patriotic days I should mention next year, add them to the comments.

Here are some articles to help you through February:

• Valentine Greeting for Your Soldier
• The USNA Love Formula (uses a bit of calculus)
• USNA and Summer STEM
• 5 Critical Skills to Accomplish During High School
• 10 Great Books to Read Before You Become a Midshipman

Now, check the ToDo list to see if you’re up to date on requirements for your application:

February To Do List for USNA Applicants

More articles worth reading:

• How to Make Your Chance of Acceptance 70%
• 6 Workouts for Future Plebes
• Checklist: Physical Qualifications for Acceptance
• 9 Secrets That’ll Get You Into USNA
• Six reasons why you might be a midshipman…

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army. 

Depending upon where you are in the process, you may have done some of the items on this list. Skip them. Be happy you’re done. Move on to the next:

First Steps:

If you’re serious about attending the USNA or any other military academy, buy a few books (or check them out of the library) on the process. It’s worth the investment because if you pursue this dream, you will be investing much more of your time and money before you achieve your goal. Better to make sure this is the direction you want to go.

Here is a good book to get you started:

Building a Midshipman

From the perspective of a woman who was accepted and how she accomplished it. Down-to earth, personal, definitely not dry, and should give confidence to any teen, male or female, considering a military academy as their college of choice. She is now Commander.

Tour the Yard

Check USNA Admissions Facebook page for regional forums.

Tour the Yard if you’re in Annapolis. Call for the current schedule.

Seniors–Check for Letter of Assurance

Few get them. Most candidates get an Offer of Appointment without a LOA. Don’t think too much about it, but if you get one, cheer.

Seniors–follow up on Blue-and-Gold Interview

The B&G (Blue and Gold) Interview is by your BGO. It allows the Naval Academy one more opportunity to ensure that they appoint candidates who will make it through the next nine years. It has to occur before you are accepted and shows up as complete or pending on the CIS. Prepare for it. Don’t take it for granted because you think your BGO ‘likes’ you. It’s his job to be an applicant screen for USNA, not your buddy.

Frosh/Soph: To find your Blue and Gold Officer Area Coordinator, please click here.

Seniors–Apply for a Candidate Weekend Visit

Even if you’ve already received your offer, attend this exciting weekend. You’ll get to see the Yard, visit Mids, ask more questions, see how the academics work. It’ll help you decide if you’re not sure, or clinch your decision to attend.

Seniors–DodMETS

This should be done. If you required a DodMETS waiver, follow up. Make sure it comes through. A good rule is to do everything you can until the ball is in someone else’s court so to speak. Don’t expect a waiver to happen without lots of personal attention.

Click here for background on DodMETS.

Seniors–get the CFA done

If you didn’t pass CFA during Summer Seminar, or didn’t attend that event, arrange for your high school gym coach or someone else you trust to administer the full exam. If you don’t pass, you have until you submit your application to pass it. Check out what’s required (crunches, shuttle run, mile run, etc.) and make sure you’re prepared.

For information on the Candidate Fitness Assessment, click here and then here.

Seniors–Follow up on all steps of the application

Check the binder you set up over the summer to be sure everything is submitted. Check CIS–Candidate Information System–the online application site for candidates only. Be sure USNA has everything you’ve sent. If they don’t, resend and/or talk to your B&G Officer. In fact, stay in close touch with your B&G Officer at this stage in your process. He’ll be interviewing you and passing his recommendation on to the Admittance board.

Make copies of every piece of paper you submit. Then, if (when) they disappear across the country in Annapolis, it won’t be a show stopper.

Seniors–follow up on the Letters of Recommendation from teachers

Teachers are very busy writing these for many seniors. You may have to stay on top of them to be sure they get out. Don’t worry. Your teachers won’t mind. They’re used to it.

Seniors–Accepted? Get a Passport

You’ll need one eventually, and sometimes, they take a while to get. Don’t run out of time. Get one now.

Hone these critical skills

All USNA applicants and grads are leaders. If you’re a freshman, even a sophomore, not sure if you have enough of the leadership gene, check out these posts to see how to develop these traits:

• How to solve problems
• How to manage your time
• How to prioritize
• How to get along with people
• How to think

Read Books

Check out the Marine Corps reading list

Keep your resume up to date

List all of your activities, awards, community service. The best time to start this is as a freshman. Keep it up to date throughout high school. It’ll remind you of all your accomplishments when you’re filling out applications and essays.

Here’s a sample (truncated to protect the applicant info), set up in Google Spreadsheet with a simple organization with columns and rows:

Freshmen/Sophomores–Attend an Academy Night

These occur throughout the year, so keep your eyes open. They’re offered through the School District or your representative’s office. Check those websites to find out when you should go. Here are a few examples (albeit dated):

Frosh/Soph–Get your Social Security Number

You must have one to apply to the Naval Academy. If you don’t have the card, get it.

Tour a warship

These tours are offered through your Blue and Gold officer or any number of other avenues. Find a tour. Take it. You want to be sure the Naval Academy is right for you. Seeing officers at work on a Navy ship is a good idea.

Be a leader

Wherever there’s an opportunity to be a leader, take it. The Military Academies want to see you as a proactive, can-do person, not a follower. Officers are the ones who make things happen and inspire the enlisted to do their best. Be that person.

Continue Community Service

Most colleges want to know you give back to your community; Military Academies are no exception. Do as much as you can. Give as much of your time and labor as you can afford. No, it doesn’t mean you do less in academics or sports. Figure out how to do it all. That’s the kind of person USNA, USAFA and all military academies like.

Are you a Future USNA Midshipman?

Read the qualifications of a Midshipman here. See what you think.

–taken from Building a Midshipman: How to Crack the United States Naval Academy Application

–image credit Deposit Photo

Copyright ©2026 usna.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. She is the author/editor of two military-tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days (starring the USS Bunker Hill), over one hundred resources on integrating tech into education, and mother of a CDR in the Navy and a SFC in the Army.