Frequently Asked Questions about USAFA

What is the purpose of Basic Cadet Training (BCT)?

The BCT program tests cadets’ mental and physical abilities and helps them transition from civilian to military life. This foundational leadership training helps develop alertness, physical endurance, emotional stability, self-reliance and individual initiative.

Are parents permitted to contact cadets by phone during BCT?

No, parents should refrain from calling during BCT. Cadets are instructed to write home soon after BCT begins to give parents the name and phone numbers of their Air Officer Commanding, or AOC, who directly supervises their squadron. Cadets and parents are strongly encouraged to communicate through cards and letters.

When can I send my cadet care packages?

Cadets going through BCT are not allowed to receive care packages. However, upon completion of training, they are allowed to receive care packages from family or friends at any time.

Are cadets counseled on the selection of a major?

Yes, cadets are guided by academic advisors who discuss the academic majors in relation to career areas and opportunities in the Air Force. After selecting a major, cadets are assigned to a faculty advisor who will assist with course selections, schedules and other academic matters.

How accessible are the instructors?

The instructors at the Academy maintain office hours Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Unless teaching or in a meeting, instructors are available for extra instruction. Additionally, most teachers will provide a contact number and e-mail address for after-hours questions.

Is it possible to be recruited for a sport by the Academy? 

Yes, it is possible to be recruited for an intercollegiate sport, but recruited athletes receive the same general scholarship as every cadet. By receiving a general scholarship, if you should ever become injured while playing a sport and can no longer participate, you will not lose your general Academy scholarship.

Where can cadets go if overwhelmed, stressed-out or having difficulty adjusting to the Academy?

Cadets have access to many helpful agencies, including the Academy’s Peak Performance Center.  The center provides a full range of counseling and performance enhancement services to meet the developmental, emotional, psychological and leadership needs of the cadet wing.

Students often experience transitional stress due to new challenges or face difficult decisions regarding a wide spectrum of normal developmental issues.  In addition, each squadron has two cadet PEERs, Personal Ethics and Education Representatives, to help address concerns and seek professional guidance.

When and where are cadets permitted to practice their faith of choice?

Worship attendance at the cadet chapel is voluntary. The chapel has dedicated worship areas for Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim and Buddhist faith groups, as well as an all-faiths room for other worshiping traditions.  In addition, an outdoor area for Earth-based religions was recently added near the cadet area.  The cadet chapel releases weekly worship schedules, and cadets are also permitted to attend a place of worship of choice in the local community. Cadets may participate in other religious activities including choirs, study groups, daily worship and fellowship organizations.

How can parents help their son or daughter excel in the cadet wing?

Parents can encourage cadets to put forth their best efforts in all areas, and particularly, to abide by cadet wing regulations, take responsibility for their actions, and be accountable to themselves and their supervisors.  Parental support has been found to be a strong motivator toward positive performance. Conversely, parents who condone violations will undermine the Academy’s efforts and leave their son or daughter open to punishment and possible disenrollment.

What leave periods do cadets have?

Cadets have a leave period over Thanksgiving, two-and-a-half weeks for winter break, and one week in the spring semester. During the summer, most cadets have approximately three weeks of leave.

As a parent, is there a local support group I can join?

There are more than 90 Air Force Academy parent clubs in the United States, with every state having representation. For more information, please call (719) 333-3828 or (877) 268-3383.

Do graduates have a chance to obtain an advanced degree?

Graduates can receive scholarships to attend civilian graduate schools immediately after graduation.  Graduates in the top 15 percent of their class are typically prime candidates for post-graduate education programs.  Other graduates may also have opportunities for graduate education through the Air Force Institute of Technology program.

Can graduates enter medical school?

The Academy may send up to three percent of each graduating class directly to medical, nursing or dental school.