Sweating over Prestigious Military College Expectations

I've been thinking about applying to some prestigious military colleges, but I'm not sure if I need any special qualifications or skills. Do I need to have a certain level of physical fitness before applying? Does attending a military college mean I'm committed to serving in the military afterwards? Just trying to get my head around it all.

Certainly, applying to military colleges can seem a daunting prospect, but with the right information, it becomes less overwhelming.

To answer your first question, yes, military colleges do require a certain level of physical fitness from their applicants. The standards can vary depending on the institution, but generally speaking, applicants are often required to pass a Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA). The CFA often includes tests of strength, speed, and endurance, such as push-ups, sit-ups, and a one-mile run, among others. If you're seriously considering military colleges, it would be beneficial for you to start physical training as soon as possible to ensure you meet these standards.

As for your second question, attending a military college typically means you're committed to a service obligation after graduation. For example, if you attend the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Air Force Academy, or U.S. Naval Academy, you usually commit to at least five years of active duty service and three years of inactive reserve service following graduation. Note that service commitment varies depending on the institution and could change depending on your chosen career field within the military.

Attending a military college is a significant decision that involves commitment and a departure from the civilian college experience. Therefore, it's essential to consider your personal goals, aspirations, and willingness to commit to military service when making your decision. Be sure to do thorough research and even speak with current students or alumni from these military colleges if you can - they would provide valuable first-hand insights into what life is like at these institutions.