Prepare early, beginning in junior high school if you are interested in attending the Academy. Plan your high school courses while in junior high and join a team sport. Focus on physical training for upper-body strength, running and endurance skills. The Academy is situated 7,250 feet above sea level, which will diminish endurance unless you are at a high level of cardiovascular fitness when you arrive.
Familiarize yourself with military history and the principles of aviation as a means of enhancing your candidacy to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Books such as "The Art of War" and "Once An Eagle" may give you an edge over other applicants. Your local library's section of military history is another good resource.
Maintain a high grade point average through out high school. In 2011, 80 percent of students accepted to the Academy were in the top quarter of their graduating high school class, 52 percent were in the top tenth and 10 percent were at the top of their class. Enroll in advanced placement or honors classes to stand out on your application.
Participate in at least one sport and one non-sporting extracurricular activity, such as the chess club or debate team. The Air Force Academy is looking for applicants that are well-rounded. If possible, form your own high school club focused on aviation or join the Boy Scouts of America. Work your way up to become team captain of your sport or president of a club. This will demonstrate your leadership skills as well as your dedication and commitment.
Write to your state representatives or senators and ask for a letter of nomination to be included as part of your application. You are required to be nominated by a governmental official such as a congressman or Vice President. Start writing letters early so you will receive the nomination in time for your application. According to the Air Force Academy, each member of congress and Vice President can have no more than five of their nominations attending the Academy at one time and can only nominate ten students per year if they do not have any nominations currently attending the Academy.
Volunteer at local charities or hospitals. The U.S. Air Force Academy is looking for cadets of high moral standing. Helping others in your community shows your dedication to service and will enhance your appeal to admissions officials at the Academy.
Work on your swimming abilities as each U.S. Air Force Academy student must complete an aquatics class. Sign up for swimming lessons or swim regularly at your local public pool.
Become involved in student government or other leadership positions. The Air Force Academy is looking for candidates that have proven leadership qualities. Valedictorian, salutatorian, team captain or National Honor Society membership are other leadership roles the Academy is looking for in an applicant. Becoming an elected student government officer, such as class president will also help get you into the Academy.
Take SAT or ACT tests while in your junior year of high school. Make certain to study for these standardized college admission tests. You should have a score of at least 580 in verbal section and 560 in math for the SAT or record a score of 25 in the ACT. Sign up for the tests in your sophomore year of high school.
Complete an Air Force Academy application and questionnaire as a junior in high school before December 31 of that year. You will receive a candidate kit and must sign up for a medical exam and fitness assessment before January 31 of your senior year of high school.