What does is take to get in an academy for the military?

First and probably the biggest thing they look at is your grades and involvement in your community. It is very difficult to gain acceptance to any of the academies but it can be done! Just don't give up and be persistent. You will also need Letters of Recommendations from multiple sources (preferred).  Congressmen, Senators, retired military officers, active military officer/Academy graduates.... without these letters, it will much harder. Good luck!

I did not complete my time at the US Military Academy (West Point), due to a number of reasons, but I did serve my country after my time at the academy. I also had appointments to the US Air Force Academy, US Naval Academy and numerous civilian scholarships.

Getting in to one of the service academies is difficult, but you are young enough that you have time to be competitive. The academies emphasize academics, but are looking for well-rounded individuals. Here are things to focus on:

• Take all the STEM classes that you can and get A's in the classes.
• Stay in the top 10% or better of you class academically.
• Take the SAT/ACT tests, but study beforehand, you'll want to score as high as possible.
• Participate in sports, be the best athlete that you can. Try to be a team captain.
• Participate in school clubs and activities that you enjoy. Take on a leadership position in those clubs.
• Participate in after school activities and organizations like civic groups or community groups. Try to organize activities within those groups.
• Participate in your school government.
• Join your school's JROTC program.

Start communicating early with the academy liaisons and your school guidance counselor. Participate in one of the academy's summer internships for high school juniors. Don't forget to also check out ROTC programs at colleges and universities as a back up plan.

Good luck!!