Summer Seminar FAQ
Where is the link to apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Summer Seminar Program?
You will go through the same application portal as regular cadets when applying to Summer Seminar. Apply to the Summer Seminar.
When will I find out whether or not I was selected?
Summer Seminar selection decisions will be viewable on the application portal by the first week in April. Additional information on how to register will be sent to the student’s email on file. If selected for a Summer Seminar spot, your selection is temporary and contingent upon completing all paperwork and payment requirements by your given due date in your registration portal (same place you applied online). All forms are in the portal and online if you are selected and an email will not be sent with a link. It is your responsibility to regularly check your portal to determine completeness and acceptance into the program. If your items are not complete by the given deadline, you will be removed from the program and replaced with an alternate until the program is full.
Will I get to select which session I want to attend?
If you are selected, there will be a follow-up email requesting your preference. Our registration team does its best to meet student preferences, but there is no guarantee.
How many people are selected for each session?
Approximately 320 students are selected to attend each session.
How many students apply for the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Summer Seminar?
Selection for Summer Seminar is very competitive. For example, there are more than 3,000 applicants each year. The selection team considers the “whole-person concept” in making its final decision.
If I do not get accepted to attend Summer Seminar, will it negatively impact my application to the U.S. Air Force Academy?
No, the Summer Seminar program is for exposure only. Selection to attend is NOT a prerequisite for admission to the U.S. Air Force Academy, nor is it indicative of a candidate’s likelihood of being appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy.
If the deadline for the application period has passed, is there any way to apply?
No, the registration period is open from December 1 through January 15 unless otherwise stated. No extensions or late applications will be accepted under any circumstances. We encourage students to apply as early as possible to ensure they complete the entire application in a timely manner.
Can I update my application after I submit it?
No, you will not be able to edit your application after it has been submitted for review.
Can I swap Summer Seminar sessions once accepted?
It is not guaranteed, but if there is another student who is willing to do a one-for-one swap between sessions, it may be considered if resources can support the change.
If I am injured prior to the beginning of my Summer Seminar session, can I still participate?
If your acceptance into the program is complete and you become injured prior to attending, you must report your injury for determination on attending the session. Failure to do so may result in you being sent home at your own expense prior to check-in. ALL students must be able to support their body weight in exercises on each limb and be able to climb stairs quickly (examples include push-ups, pull-ups, squats, jumps, running, and sit-ups on your own without support, casts, braces, etc). There will be no excusals from any event for any student.
I have a food allergy or require a special diet. Can I still attend?
No food, dietary or allergy accommodations will be made for Summer Seminar attendees. The dining hall is NOT a nut- or allergy-free facility, and meals are served to the table and passed around family-style. If you have concerns regarding these issues, please call or email the Summer Seminar contacts before applying for inquiries.
Does the likelihood of acceptance depend on how early I submit the application?
Every application will be considered equally after the final deadline, regardless of the date it was submitted. We encourage you to take the time to submit a thorough application.
When can I begin buying plane tickets and transportation to the U.S. Air Force Academy?
Once you receive a notification of selection and confirmation for the session for which you are registered, you can begin to coordinate travel plans to the U.S. Air Force Academy. For further guidance, refer to the instructions manual provided after selection.
I cannot find flights to Colorado Springs. Can I fly into Denver?
If you fly into Denver, commercial shuttles are available from the Denver International Airport to the Colorado Springs Airport, but arrangements and expenses are the responsibility of the attendee(s). Transportation directly to Arnold Hall may be coordinated by an attendee, particularly for late arrivals.
What does it mean if I am placed on the wait list?
If you are placed on the Summer Seminar wait list, you are still being considered for attendance to the program. Should another attendee forfeit his or her acceptance, the next individual on the wait list will be invited to Summer Seminar as soon as possible. Wait-list invitations will end at least two weeks prior to the session start date.