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If I am a high school
graduate of the Christa McAuliffe Academy or a similar accredited
online high school am I a viable candidate for an Officer Select
program?
The short answer is
absolutely yes. Online and home school graduates may be deemed
unsuitable for enlisted service. The Olympic Institute and the
Christa McAuliffe Academy are currently working together to change
this misguided Department of Defense policy. However, all Officer
Select programs are open to graduates who are both academically and
medically qualified.
At what point does the Olympic Institute begin working with potential
candidates?
We will talk to a
student at any time. Some as early as sixth grade. We know
that young people often set their sights on these programs at that young
age. We really begin our first programs in the spring of eighth
grade with our College Prep Services Program.
Here we impress upon
students the need to select the right high school classes that are also
balanced for success. This program continues into the junior year
with emphasis on academics, standardized tests, athletics, community
service and leadership development.
What are the minimum grade point average and SAT scores needed to gain
academy and ROTC admissions?
In most cases, a 3.5
GPA and over 1200 on the SAT's is needed. For the Class of 2006,
here are the average SAT scores: 1300 USNA, 1285 USAFA, 1275 USMA,
1270 USCGA, 1220 USMMA.
My child would like to become a military pilot. Which federal
service academy offers the best opportunity for flight?
You best be sitting
down on this one. It is the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located
at Kings Point, New York. For the past eight years they have
boasted a 100% success rate. Kings Point may be a bit easier to
get into but it is, in our opinion, the toughest from which to graduate.
Does the Olympic Institute accept clients from beyond the Pacific
Northwest?
Yes. With modern
technology being what it is, we actually have clients from around the
globe. Once we have pre-screened a candidate and determined that
they are qualified, we can handle all areas of our work from a
"distance.
Our child has been "home schooled." Does that affect their chances
of being selected to an Officer Select Program?
No. Attention
goes to national test scores and the strength and ratings of the
specific home school program being used. Emphasis must be given to
Physics and/or Chemistry that must include a lab. These courses,
plus sports and club activities can often be gained by affiliating with
a local high school of choice.
Our child has a history of asthma. Is this an automatic medical
disqualifier?
Generally not, if there
has been no history since the the age of 12 and there is no current use
of an inhaler.
Does my child need 20/20 vision to become a pilot and how does Laser Eye
Surgery fit in?
No, if they wish to be
a Navigator. Yes, if they want to fly front seat. During the
final year of either the academy or college ROTC program, those wishing
to fly and who are medically and psychologically qualified but have less
than 20/20 vision can apply for a medical waiver. Laser Eye
Surgery may be approved with the cost borne by the candidate.
Under NO circumstances should Laser Eye Surgery be performed
prior to this time, as it is an automatic disqualification.
What specific student accomplishments will make our child's application
stand out from the crowded field?
Qualifying for and
earning an Open Water Scuba Certificate or a Private Pilot's License
will do the trick.
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