United States Air Force Academy

In the absence of graded coursework from a public or private high school, greater emphasis is placed on ACT and SAT scores. Strong performance on these tests helps demonstrate academic readiness. Homeschooled students should become familiar with the Academy’s preferred score ranges and explore all available standardized testing options. For more information, refer to the Academic Requirements section of the admissions factors.

To be competitive for an appointment, the Academy recommends the following homeschool curriculum:

• English: 4 years
• College-prep mathematics: 4 years
• Social studies: 3 years
• Science: 4 years
• Modern foreign language: 2 years
• Computer science: 1 year Modern foreign languages of strategic interest include: Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, and Russian. While not a modern language, Latin is acceptable. American Sign Language is also an acceptable option. Additional beneficial skills include a background in laboratory sciences and proficiency in typing.

When applying, homeschoolers should indicate whether their homeschool is recognized by a local school board or State Board of Education. Homeschooled applicants must also submit a comprehensive transcript that includes the following information:

• Course/class title
• Length of course and date completed
• Grade received
• Grading scale
• GPA
• Curriculum or course description
• Texts and materials used
• Fieldwork or trips
• Supplementary research or study conducted

While not necessary, we encourage homeschooled students to take some college or junior college courses. In addition to demonstrating your potential in a college setting, doing so will enhance your chances of adapting to the highly structured life of an Academy cadet should you receive an appointment.

This is the portion of the application process we use to predict leadership potential. Although many homeschooled students are able to qualify academically for admission, they are often weak in the area of extracurricular activities. For more on extracurricular activities appropriate to a competitive application, see How Can I Prepare. For more on the Extracurricular Composite Score, see Academic Requirements.

We place a great deal of importance on athletic participation when considering an applicant’s overall potential to succeed at the Academy. Some states and local school districts allow homeschooled students to participate with public school children in interscholastic activities. If this is not the case where you live, then here are some suggestions:

• Swimming, tennis or gymnastics Join a local club and participate in competitions.
• Baseball Play in a summer league affiliated with Babe Ruth, Travel Team, American Legion, etc.
• Track/cross-country Run 5K and 10K races.
• Basketball Join a team at your local YMCA or Boys & Girls Clubs.