Keith • Application Portal 申请门户

Phase 1: Before High School (Now - Summer 2027)

Focus on Algebra 1 and a Foreign Language

Academies require strong math. Make sure you finish Algebra 1 in 8th grade (or are ready for Geometry in 9th). Start a foreign language now if possible.

Get Physically Active

You don't need a military workout yet, but you must build a base. Join a sport (Cross Country, Track, Soccer, Wrestling, or Swim). Start doing push-ups and pull-ups.

Start a "Brag Sheet"

Create a Google Doc. Write down every award, volunteer hour, and club you join. You will need this for the application in 4 years.

Phase 2: 9th Grade (Fall 2027 - Spring 2028)

Meet Counselor & Build 4-Year Plan

Tell them: "I want to apply to West Point (USMA) and the Air Force Academy (USAFA)." Ensure you are enrolled in Honors Math and Science if possible.

Join Extracurriculars and Aim for Leadership

Academies want leaders. Join Student Council, JROTC, Boy Scouts, or a sports team. Stick with them for all 4 years.

Take the PSAT (October)

Just for practice. You will take the real SAT/ACT in 11th grade.

Maintain A/B Grades in Core Subjects

You must get A's and B's (mostly A's) in English, Math, Science, and History. A "C" in 9th grade makes it very hard to get into an academy.

Stay Out of Trouble

Academies require a clean disciplinary record. No suspensions, no drugs, no illegal activity. Character is everything.

Phase 1: Academic Foundation (8th Grade · Now)

Meet Your Counselor & Build a 4-Year Plan

Use the UC/CSU A-G requirements as your guide. Map out your courses for all 4 years of high school.

Verify Your A-G Course Placement

Ensure you are placed in the correct Math (Algebra 1/Math 1) and Foreign Language courses this year.

Math: 3 years required (4 recommended)
Language: 2 years of the same language required

Understand the "C or Better" Rule

For UC/CSU eligibility, you must earn a C or better in all A-G courses. A D or F requires repeating the course.

Get Involved in 1-2 Extracurricular Activities

Join a sport, club, or volunteer group. Quality and commitment matter more than quantity.

Phase 2: 9th Grade Timeline (2027-28)

Take the PSAT (Optional Practice)

October

A great low-pressure way to experience the test format before it counts.

Start Your "Brag Sheet"

Create a folder (physical or digital) to save report cards, award certificates, and a list of your activities and volunteer hours.

Maintain Strong Grades in Core Subjects

Focus on English, Math, and Science. A strong 9th-grade foundation makes 10th and 11th grade much smoother.

Check Your High School's Specific Graduation Requirements

Your district may have additional requirements beyond A-G (e.g., Personal Finance, Ethnic Studies, PE, Health).