ADVERTISEMENT

Here's the grueling application process for one of the best colleges in the US

West Point's application process is tough.

West Point's application process is tough.

The United States Military Academy, also known as West Point, is one of the most prestigious colleges in the nation.

ADVERTISEMENT

In addition to its top-20 ranking by the US News and World Report, it enjoys an esteemed reputation for educating and preparing for service top-ranking members of the US military and intelligence communities, not to mention former US presidents Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

It's also incredibly difficult to gain access into. Its 10% admissions rate rivals some Ivy League colleges — and acceptance is based on both academic and physical requirements.

West Point also has a far more restrictions for applicants than the traditional college.

ADVERTISEMENT

For instance, applicants cannot be be married, pregnant, or have any children that they have legal responsibility for. They cannot be older that 22 when they apply, and must be at least 17.

The admissions process also starts much sooner than at traditional schools. Beginning in candidates junior year, they must fill out a questionnaire and begin applying for official nominations. These nominations come from members of Congress, US senators, the vice president, as well as other military personnel.

Next, applicants undergo a medical assessment that examines both their physical and mental health, as evaluated by

Then it's on to the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), a six event exam aimed at judging the applicants' physical fitness level.

ADVERTISEMENT

The CFA may seem brutal, but it's nothing compared to what freshman students face during their Cadet Basic Training, which is also referred to as "Beast Barracks."

They start their day every morning at 5 a.m. with physical conditioning.

For those accepted into West Point, tuition is fully paid by the US Army. In return, West Point graduates have an active-duty service obligation.

FOLLOW BUSINESS INSIDER AFRICA

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Recommended articles

Full list: Banking transactions exempted from CBN’s cybersecurity levy

Full list: Banking transactions exempted from CBN’s cybersecurity levy

Edward Howarth of DashTickets talks about gambling in Africa

Edward Howarth of DashTickets talks about gambling in Africa

Eco-friendly gambling: The impact of online slots on sustainability

Eco-friendly gambling: The impact of online slots on sustainability

Chad to become the first of Africa's current junta-led states to move to democracy

Chad to become the first of Africa's current junta-led states to move to democracy

Russia spreads its military influence to another African country

Russia spreads its military influence to another African country

A look into South Korea’s rice gift to Africa

A look into South Korea’s rice gift to Africa

FBNBank Ghana changes to FirstBank Ghana to align with group identity

FBNBank Ghana changes to FirstBank Ghana to align with group identity

Nigeria restricts power export to neighbouring countries to meet domestic demand

Nigeria restricts power export to neighbouring countries to meet domestic demand

NOG Energy Week 2024: West African countries harnessing gas for industrialisation to boost economic development

NOG Energy Week 2024: West African countries harnessing gas for industrialisation to boost economic development

ADVERTISEMENT