Military academies. The easy part about getting in is being a homeschooler. The hard part about getting in is everything else.
The military academy candidates for admission must receive a nomination, usually from a congressman. When was the last time you spoke to your representative? Sally and I were speaking about her son’s application to a military academy, and she has confirmed their admission requirements again.
The things you have suggested are right on for what we are trying to do. We are finding that having a high school sport is pretty important as well as physical fitness. Grades and awesome test scores are also important. And finally, leadership is utmost. There has to be proof of the student’s leadership, like team captain, community service, teaching others, etc. The umpiring that my boys did is really good.
Another thing we are finding is that with the economy as it is, the number of military ROTC and academy applicants is doubling and tripling….very competitive. But as you said, it is great to be homeschooled as long as you have the above characteristics. AND get the paperwork in EARLY!!! Oh, and you were right on with your advice on Foreign Language. They want to see Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Japanese, or Persian. We went for Arabic.
~ Sally in Washington
The military academies like “proof” of sports like they like proof of leadership. One recruiter told me that physical fitness proof doesn’t mean JUST high school sports. It can mean running timed races, biking on the Seattle to Portland race, joining a running club or biking club. A 5K is an excellent example of proving physical fitness. Any measurable physical fitness, really. Just like your leadership is measurable because they were umpires.
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My first son is currently a Firstie at the Naval Academy. We home schooled him from K-12. Everything you mention is accurate. Another suggestion I would add to really beef up your child’s transcript and give credibility to his grades at home is to have him (or her) take several classes at a local community college for his junior and senior years of high school. Classes in the sciences and math, or any sort of challenging class with a good grade really helps. My son will graduate in May with a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering. He has had a wonderful experience at USNA. It’s definitely been a huge challenge every step of the way, but well worth it.
Maria,
Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your first hand experience!
Blessings,
Lee