The Academy Preparatory School, better known as the "Prep School," is designed to academically, physically and militarily prepare qualified young men and women to enter the Academy. If you are not accepted into the Academy, you may receive an appointment to the Prep School.

Successful completion of the Prep School improves chances for appointment as an Air Force Academy cadet, but does not guarantee one.

Overview

Located on the Academy grounds, this ten-month school provides intensive academic preparation to make selected applicants more competitive for entrance into the Academy.

• Approximately 240 students between 17 and 22 years old begin the program in late July.
• The Prep School's program emphasizes the same four areas as the Academy – academic, military, athletic and character development.
• The curriculum includes math, English and general sciences. Students at the Prep School are addressed as "cadet candidates."

Eligibility Requirements

Prospective Cadet Candidates must:

• Be at least 17 and not have passed their 22nd birthday by July 1st of the year they enter the Prep School,
• Be eligible to be a U.S. citizen,
• Be unmarried and have no dependents and
• Meet specific medical standards for a commission in the United States Air Force.

Character Development

Character development is the yearlong process that builds and reinforces the traits that form a cadet candidate's commitment to personal excellence and produces quality officers to lead the Air Force.

• Every cadet candidate must accept the Honor Code when entering the Prep School.
• The Honor Code, human relations and spiritual development are all important aspects of this program.
• Character development training starts during Basic Military Training and continues throughout the entire year.
• Cadet candidates also have the opportunity to participate in community service projects, honor and ethics symposiums and distinguished visitor testimonials as part of the continuous character development process.