Essential resources and support for Alabama families throughout the USAFA journey — from application to graduation and beyond.
The Academy provides several key resources for candidates and families navigating the admissions process:
ALOs are active duty, reserve, or retired Air Force officers assigned to each region who guide candidates through the admissions process. To find or contact your ALO, log in to your USAFA application portal. For issues reaching your ALO, contact your assigned admissions team.
We have a dedicated page with more information about the ALO program and our local liaisons — visit our Liaison Officers page to learn more.
Admissions Cycle — Timeline and milestones for the full application process
Admissions Resources — Additional resources to help you through the application
Contact USAFA Admissions — Have a representative contact you directly
Congressional Nominations & Alabama Contacts — Nomination process, categories, and Alabama delegation contacts
If you need help connecting with your local ALO or navigating the nomination process, contact our club at info@alabamafalcons.org and we'll help point you in the right direction.
Basic Cadet Training is six weeks of intensive military training that begins on I-Day (In-processing Day). BCT consists of two phases: "First Beast" in the cadet area focused on military fundamentals and physical conditioning, and "Second Beast" at Jacks Valley for field training. Here are key resources:
BCT Overview — What to expect during both phases of Basic Cadet Training
Training FAQ — Answers to common questions about BCT and cadet training
Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) — Physical fitness requirements and how to prepare
In-processing Day — Appointee handbook with packing list and I-Day instructions
During BCT, cadets have limited communication privileges. Families typically receive updates through official USAFA channels and can send letters. Our Parents Club coordinates care package drives so your cadet knows Alabama is supporting them.
While tuition at USAFA is fully covered, families should understand the financial aspects of the Academy experience:
The Academy provides full tuition, room and board, medical and dental care, and a monthly stipend for cadets. However, there are initial out-of-pocket costs for uniforms, computers, and other supplies that are deducted from the cadet's pay during their first year.
Appointees should expect approximately $3,000-$4,000 in initial expenses during their first year, deducted from their monthly pay. This covers:
• Uniforms and military equipment
• Computer and software
• Textbooks and academic supplies
• Miscellaneous fees
Cadets cannot accept external scholarships that would pay them directly. However, some organizations offer one-time gifts or support. Contact USAFA Financial Services with questions about specific scholarship offers.
Understanding the medical qualification process and ongoing health support:
Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board — Handles all medical qualification exams
All service academy candidates must pass a medical examination administered by DoDMERB. The process begins after you receive your candidate number. If you receive a disqualification, you may be eligible for a waiver.
All cadets receive comprehensive medical and dental care at the Academy. The 10th Medical Group provides on-site care, and cadets have access to mental health services and counseling.
If you receive a medical disqualification, work closely with your Regional Admissions Counselor and medical providers to gather supporting documentation for a waiver request. Many common conditions are waiverable.
You're not alone on this journey. Here are resources to connect with other USAFA families:
Association of Graduates (AOG) — Official alumni and parent organization
USAFA Parents Facebook Group — Active community of current cadet parents
Connect with thousands of current and former cadet families for support, advice, and community.
• Inprocessing Day (I-Day) — Drop off your appointee and witness the oath of office
• Acceptance Day — End of BCT, cadets formally join the Cadet Wing
• Parents' Weekend — Annual fall weekend for families to visit
• Recognition — Fourth-class cadets (freshmen) earn their shoulder boards
• Ring Dance — Junior year milestone celebrating class rings
• Graduation Week — Culmination of four years at the Academy
Visitor Information — Plan your trip to Colorado Springs
The Academy welcomes visitors year-round. The Barry Goldwater Visitor Center offers tours and exhibits. Note that access to cadet areas requires proper credentials and coordination.
The Academy's rigorous academic program challenges even the strongest students:
Academic Programs Overview — Majors and curriculum information
Academic Calendar — Important dates and breaks
All cadets complete a core curriculum plus their chosen major. The Academy offers 32 majors across sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences.
Cadets have access to tutoring, academic coaching, writing centers, and faculty office hours. The Academy wants cadets to succeed and provides robust support systems for those who seek help.
Cadets may validate (test out of) courses based on AP scores, IB credits, or validation testing. Successfully validating courses allows cadets to pursue advanced coursework or additional majors/minors.