West Point is synonymous with the finest U.S. military traditions. Since 1802, the United States Military Academy (USMA) has produced many of our nation's greatest leaders. Today, it continues the legacy of shaping leaders of character, intellect, and discipline.

And current Army National Guard Soldiers may apply. West Point offers two special programs for eligible applicants. 

Soldier Admissions Program.

Allows selected enlisted Soldiers to receive a fully-funded, four-year West Point education (valued at about $450,000), a bachelor's degree and, upon graduation, a commission as a second lieutenant in the Army. 

United States Military Academy Preparatory School (USMAPS).

Prepares selected candidates for the academic, physical and military challenges of USMA through a 10-month program, on-site in West Point, NY. 

Only 85 cadetships go to Army National Guard or Army Reserve Soldiers each year—so selections are extremely competitive. The West Point Admissions Committee determines admission for both programs.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants to the Soldier Admissions Program and to USMAPS must:

• Be a U.S. citizen at the time of enrollment
• Be at least 17, but not older than 23 years of age on July 1 of the year entering USMA (or not older than 22 on July 1 of the year entering USMAPS)
• Be unmarried with no legal obligation to support a child or dependents; pregnant applicants will not be admitted
• Be medically qualified by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DODMERB)
• Be a high school graduate or have a GED
• Be of high moral character and never have been convicted of a felony by a civilian or military court
• Submit official scores on the standardized ACT exam or the SAT with writing test
• Be nominated by your unit commander
• Be eligible for reenlistment
• Have completed Basic Combat Training prior to admission; completion of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) is not a prerequisite

Attending West Point isn't just a great way to advance your military career. It's also an extremely challenging academic undertaking, often compared to an Ivy League education. High-performing Soldiers who are ready for a challenge, and who exceed the minimum standards listed here, are encouraged to apply.

Get More Information

To apply, and to learn more details about the Soldier Admissions Program and the United States Military Academy Preparatory School, visit the West Point website.