Gateway for Prospective Cadets

This is more than a college application - it’s your first step toward leading with purpose.

Apply to the United States Military Academy Information for USMAPS Prospective Cadet Candidates

Gateway for Prospective Cadets

This is more than a college application - it’s your first step toward leading with purpose.

Apply to the United States Military Academy Information for USMAPS Prospective Cadet Candidates
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A World-Class Education with Purpose

At the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, you’ll earn more than a degree. You’ll gain the skills, support, and leadership training to make an immediate impact on the world around you. With discipline, determination, and the strength of a close-knit community, you’ll push past limits, achieve new goals, and prepare to shape the future of our country through service and leadership. This is where your potential meets purpose - and where your journey begins.

Explore the West Point experience Explore West Point culture Explore your future with West Point Take the first step on your West Point journey

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You Don't Come Here to be Average - You Come to West Point to Become an Exceptional Leader of Character

At the United States Military Academy at West Point, you’ll be pushed - academically, physically, and mentally - to grow into the strongest, smartest, and most resilient version of yourself. 

Over 47 months, you’ll be immersed in a world of real-world academics, military training, leadership opportunities, and unforgettable traditions that shape who you are and who you’ll become. With discipline, determination, and a community that supports your every step, you’ll learn to lead with character, solve problems with confidence, and shape the future with purpose. 

This is not just about earning a degree - it’s about developing the intellect, integrity, and innovation to lead America into the future.

West Point’s Academic Program isn’t your typical college experience. It’s an immersive, hands-on, and high-tech education designed to prepare you to lead in a complex, fast-moving world. You’ll push beyond what you thought was possible in an environment that demands excellence and rewards curiosity. With a unique mix of real-world academics, cutting-edge technology, and world-class instructors - both military and civilian - you’ll gain the skills, knowledge, and mindset to think critically, solve problems creatively, and shape the future. Here, you won’t just learn what to think - you’ll learn how to think.

This is not just about earning a degree - it’s about developing the intellect, integrity, and innovation to lead America into the future.

With a nationally ranked academic program, cutting-edge technology, and a reputation for excellence, West Point equips you with the knowledge, confidence, and real-world experience to lead and succeed - no matter where your future takes you.

Explore West Point’s prestigious academic experience:

At West Point, education extends far beyond lectures and textbooks. It's a full-body, full-mind experience built to prepare you for the real world and the real challenges ahead. Through world-class leadership training, hands-on military experiences, and a focus on discipline, resilience, and purpose, you’ll gain more than just knowledge. You’ll develop the confidence, courage, and composure to lead with excellence in any environment - whether that’s in the Army, in your career, or in life. Push yourself to be your best, and emerge ready to lead with strength, character, and conviction.

This isn’t just training. It's a transformation. And it’s how West Point prepares you to win in a complex world.

At West Point, you don’t have to wait to make an impact. From day one, you’ll be challenged, supported, and empowered to grow into a leader who’s ready to serve, lead, and shape the future of our Nation. Only at West Point do you gain the unmatched combination of real-world skills and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities - alongside the respect, recognition, and responsibility that come with them. You’ll develop the critical thinking, character, and leadership experience you need - and the military training and mentorship to take it even further.

The Army needs officers who can lead from the front - mentally tough, physically fit, and ready for anything. At West Point, you’ll become that kind of leader. The Physical Program is more than fitness - it’s the foundation for a lifetime of service, resilience, and excellence.

At West Point, you won’t just compete - you’ll transform. You’ll gain strength, purpose, and a relentless drive to lead and win - on the field, in the Army, and in life.

Explore Athletics and the Warrior Ethos at West Point:

  • Physical Program overview
    Learn how physical training is built into every year of the cadet experience - from Reception Day to Graduation.
  • Cadet wellness
    Discover how West Point’s integrated program develops strength, endurance, and leadership through core fitness and activity classes.
  • Company athletics (intramurals)
    Find out how West Point’s unique intramural program teaches Army values, mental toughness, and the warrior mindset.
  • NCAA sports
    Explore USMA's 25 Division I sports teams for men and women.
  • Pushing past limits
    Learn how cadets grow by taking on Cadet Basic Training that demands their all - and reveals their potential.
  • Physical challenge and adventure
    Stay strong and active through club sports, outdoor training, intramurals, and physical development programs.

At West Point, being built to win isn’t just about working out. It's about becoming physically, mentally, and emotionally strong enough to lead. 

From world-class fitness programs and athletic opportunities to full-spectrum health services and nutrition guidance, cadets have access to everything they need to thrive and to lead with strength, balance, and confidence.

West Point’s commitment to your health is part of its commitment to your leadership. Here, you’ll build lifelong habits of strength, focus, and discipline - so you're ready to lead yourself, your teammates, and your country.

Explore Health & Wellness Resources at West Point:

  • Mental and emotional health support
    Learn about the counseling, peer support, and mental health resources available to help cadets stay resilient and focused.
  • Medical and dental care
    Get care from outstanding on-campus health providers like Keller Army Community Hospital and Saunders Dental Clinic.
  • Nutrition and dietetics support
    Work with board-certified sports dietitians to create personalized fueling plans, improve performance, and build a healthy lifestyle.

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This Is West Point - Like Nowhere Else

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The College Experience - Elevated

West Point isn’t just a college. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines elite academics, unmatched leadership training, and an energetic, purpose-driven community. 

You’ll study with high-achieving peers, compete with teammates who push you to grow, and connect with mentors who support you every step of the way. Whether you're leading in the classroom, training, or building friendships that last a lifetime, every moment at West Point is designed to challenge, inspire, and elevate you.

This is where teamwork meets tradition, and passion meets purpose. This is where leaders are forged.

At West Point, you won’t just go to college - you’ll rise to meet a challenge shared by some of the most passionate, driven, and high-achieving students in the country. Here, you’ll learn alongside National Merit Scholars, class presidents, valedictorians, and National Honor Society members - leaders who are humble, hardworking, and ready to earn every opportunity. If you’re fueled by purpose and prepared to push yourself, this is where your ambition becomes action - and your potential becomes leadership.

At West Point, you’ll be surrounded by people who push you to go farther - because they’re doing the same. If you’re ready to lead, achieve, and serve, you’ll fit right in.

At West Point, you're never on this journey alone. You’ll be challenged like never before - but also supported by a close-knit community of mentors, classmates, and leaders who are all committed to helping you reach your full potential. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by people who believe in your ability to grow - professors who are accessible and invested in your success, officers and NCOs who guide and mentor you, and fellow cadets who become lifelong teammates and friends. Here, challenge builds character - and community carries you through.

Explore the Supportive West Point Experience:

At West Point, you're not just part of a prestigious institution. You’re part of a purpose-driven community that believes in your potential and stands with you every step of the way.

At West Point, leadership is more than a skill. It’s a way of life. Through a structured and immersive experience, you’ll develop not just your intellect, but your character. You’ll learn to live with integrity, lead with honor, and make decisions grounded in ethics and purpose. Our approach challenges you to know who you are, stay true to what you believe, and lift others as you lead. If you're ready to grow into someone who makes a difference - not just in the moment, but for a lifetime - this is where it starts.

At West Point, you’ll experience much more than top-tier academics and leadership training. You’ll join a vibrant, energetic community where tradition meets opportunity. From unforgettable ceremonies and campus-wide events to 60+ academic clubs, sports teams, service projects, and cultural organizations, cadet life is full of one-of-a-kind experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you're hiking in the Hudson Highlands, volunteering in the community, or taking part in timeless West Point traditions, you'll be part of something greater - building friendships, memories, and a sense of belonging that will last a lifetime.

At West Point, every day is an opportunity to connect, grow, and thrive in a community where your potential is matched only by your purpose. 

Explore Life Beyond the Classroom:

  • Cadet company life and camaraderie 
    Find out why your company becomes your closest community - where bonds are forged through shared challenges and victories.
  • Spiritual and faith support
    Explore chapels, services, and support for all faiths that help cadets stay grounded and connected throughout their journey.
  • Cadet life and campus traditions
    Discover the events, ceremonies, and shared experiences that make life at West Point unforgettable.
  • Clubs and extracurricular activities
    Get involved in 60+ clubs, teams, and forums - from debate and robotics to drama, cultural groups, and more.
  • Milestones
    Explore how you'll be exposed to academic, military, and physical opportunities that develop you into a leader of character.

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Focus 100% on the Future

At West Point, everything is designed to launch your success - from a fully funded education with no student debt, to guaranteed career opportunities after graduation. 

You’ll earn a top-tier degree, gain real-world leadership experience, and receive the training, mentorship, and financial tools to build a strong future. With tuition, room and board, and healthcare covered - and monthly pay in your pocket - you can focus completely on becoming the leader you're meant to be.

At West Point, your college education is 100% covered - tuition, room and board, medical and dental insurance, and more. That means you can focus fully on your academics, training, and leadership development without the burden of student loans. Cadets earn monthly pay, receive world-class financial education, and gain access to resources that prepare them to make smart financial decisions for life. It’s not just a free education. It's a head start on your future.

Explore Your Financial Freedom at West Point:

West Point gives you more than a debt-free education. It gives you the tools, support, and confidence to build a strong, stable future from day one.

At West Point, your future starts the day you arrive - and it's secured the day you graduate. Every cadet is guaranteed a meaningful career as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, leading from the front in one of 13 dynamic career fields. From aviation to cyber operations, West Point sets you on a clear path to leadership, service, and impact - whether in the military, government, or beyond. Here, career prep isn’t an afterthought - it’s built into everything you do.

Choosing West Point means choosing purpose, leadership, and a guaranteed start to a career that makes a difference.

Explore Career Preparation:

  • Explore Army career fields
    Discover the 13 exciting branches cadets can enter after graduation - from engineering to aviation to medical services.
  • Talent-based branching
    Find out how cadets match with branches that align with their strengths, interests, and goals - 95% receive one of their top three choices.
  • What happens after graduation
    Learn how West Point grads launch their careers as second lieutenants with guaranteed leadership roles.

 Explore Career Pathways:

At West Point, you’re not just preparing for a job. You’re preparing for a life of purpose, leadership, and impact. Whether you choose to build a long-term career in the Army or take your experience into business, public service, or government, you’ll graduate ready to shape the future of your country - and your own future. West Point gives you the tools, mindset, and opportunities to pursue excellence in everything you do - so you can succeed in your career and in life.

At West Point, we don’t just prepare you for your next role. We prepare you to lead a life of purpose, honor, and lasting impact.

Explore Your Future After West Point:

At West Point, you're not just building a career. You're preparing to shape the future - in whatever way you choose to lead.

USMA is more than a college. It's a world-renowned institution known for developing leaders of character who excel in every field. It’s a challenging, prestigious, and rewarding journey that earns respect across the nation and around the globe.

When you graduate from West Point, you become part of something bigger than yourself - a powerful, lifelong network known as the Long Gray Line. This legendary group of alumni spans every generation and every corner of the world, united by a shared commitment to leadership, service, and excellence. Wherever life takes you - whether in the Army, business, public service, or beyond - you’ll always have the support, mentorship, and pride of this one-of-a-kind brotherhood and sisterhood standing behind you.

Explore the Power of the Long Gray Line:

  • West Point Association of Graduates
    Connect with the official alumni network and explore programs, support services, reunions, and career resources.
  • Alumni Success Stories
    Meet West Point graduates who have gone on to lead in the military, Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations, and public office.

Joining West Point means joining a community that lasts a lifetime—where tradition, pride, and purpose create bonds that never break.

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Start Your Journey to West Point

Ready to lead, serve, and shape the future? Your journey to the United States Military Academy at West Point begins here. If you're a motivated student between the ages of 17 and 22, a U.S. citizen, and ready for the challenge of a lifetime, West Point offers unmatched opportunities in leadership, academics, and service.

Basic Eligibility Requirements:

  • U.S. citizen
  • Age 17–22 by July 1 of the year you enter
  • Unmarried
  • No legal obligation to support children

Have questions about eligibility? Explore the eligibility FAQs.

Not yet eligible? You're never too young to start preparing.

Start Here: Key Steps and Resources

With a clear path to admission, world-class training, and a community like no other, now is the time to take your first step. West Point is more than a college. It’s your launchpad to a life of leadership, service, and purpose. And it starts now.

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