Admission is limited to enlisted members of the Air Force Regular and Reserve components and to selected civilian students.

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

Civilian Students

Civilian students applying for, but not receiving, an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy need not reapply to the Preparatory School; they will automatically be considered for a Prep School appointment.

Airmen

Only Air Force enlisted members may apply directly to the Prep School via Air Force Form 1786, submitted through the unit commander and Military Personnel Flight. Consult Air Force Instruction 36-2021 for details.

Other Military Enlisted

Enlisted members from the Army, Navy and Marine Corps are not eligible for a nomination in the airman category, but are considered as civilians.

Reserve Status

• Civilian selectees are placed on active duty as Air Force Reserve airmen while attending the Prep School.
• If not selected for an Academy appointment, Reserve Air Force candidates are discharged from the Reserves with no further obligation to the Air Force.
• Regular Air Force airmen are made available for assignment to other duties.

For more information about the Air Force Academy Preparatory School, click here.