United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School

The U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School—usually referred to as "the Prep School" or "The P School"—was established in May 1961. The school's founder and first commander was Colonel Lee Charles Black. It is located on the campus of the United States Air Force Academy near the Community Center. The Prep School's mission is to prepare, motivate, and evaluate for admission to and success at the Air Force Academy. Students at the prep school are referred to as "cadet candidates" or more informally as "preppies."

The prep school has a staff of 57 people and offers a 10-month program of intense academic preparation, military training, and athletic conditioning, designed to develop in cadet candidates the skills and character necessary to be successful at the Academy. The academic curriculum is focused on mathematics, English, and sciences.

Eligibility requirements

Prospective cadet candidates must:

• Be at least 17 and not have passed their 22 birthday by July 1 of the year they enter the Prep School.
• Be eligible to be a U.S. citizen.
• Be unmarried and have no dependents.
• Meet the medical standards for a commission in the United States Air Force.

Admission and transition to USAFA

Like the Academy, admission to the prep school is competitive, with selections made by the Academy director of admissions. If a civilian, Airman, either Active Duty or Reserve, applies for but does not...
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