Pathway from being enlisted to attending the Naval Academy?

I'm an enlisted service member considering applying to the Naval Academy. How does the process work for people in my position? I'm curious about application timelines and if there are particular challenges involved.

The process for enlisted service members to attend the Naval Academy is a little different from the traditional high school-to-college route, but it is certainly feasible. You can apply to the Naval Academy through the regular candidate process, but there are also special nomination categories that apply to enlisted Sailors and Marines.

Here are some steps for you:

1. Firstly, you will need to express your interest to your superior and begin preparing your package.

2. Obtain a nomination. The Secretary of the Navy can nominate up to 170 enlisted members from the Navy and Marine Corps each year. You don't have to be on active duty to apply for these nominations; enlisted reservists or those in the Delayed Entry Program might qualify. Your Training Officer can provide more specific information.

3. Complete the Candidate Application. This includes all standard parts of a college application, including school transcripts, standardized test scores, a personal statement, and teacher recommendations. Since the deadline varies slightly each year, contacting your specific Academy Admissions Office is a good idea.

4. Take the Candidate Fitness Assessment. This fitness test is an essential part of the application to measure your physical aptitude.

5. If selected as a potential candidate, the next step is medical evaluations through the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board.

6. Participate in an interview with a Blue and Gold Officer once your preliminary application is complete.

Some challenges that enlisted persons face in the Naval Academy include adapting to the lifestyle of a Midshipman, especially if you're coming from active duty where you've already been performing military duties. Similarly, it can be different adjusting back to the academic side of things if it's been a while since you've been in a traditional school setting.

It's also worth noting that the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) can be a valuable step in this process. NAPS is a 10-month program in Rhode Island for candidates who show exceptional potential but may need a bit more preparation before attending the Naval Academy.

As always, reach out to your unit's educational officer or the Naval Academy Admissions Office for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Good luck with your journey towards the Naval Academy!