The United States Air Force Academy, located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is designed to develop cadets to become leaders of character in the United States Air Force. The education extends beyond academics to include moral and physical challenges as well. As a result of its mission, the Air Force Academy is very different from a civilian college. Any student entering the Air Force Academy should be prepared for its unique challenges. Other People Are Reading Air Force Academy Scholarships How to Apply for a Congressional Nomination to a Service Academy Things You'll Need Internet connection Running shoes Computer Show More Instructions 1 Take college-prep classes throughout high school. Take four years of English, as well as advanced math and science classes. The course load at the Air Force Academy is heavy, and the other students are very bright.

• Take college-prep classes throughout high school. Take four years of English, as well as advanced math and science classes. The course load at the Air Force Academy is heavy, and the other students are very bright.


• Be ready for science and math. Today's Air Force is very technical, and the Air Force Academy needs to ensure that all graduates (not just the engineering majors) can work in a technical environment.


• Get in shape physically. Prepare with conditioning exercises such as sit-ups, pull-ups and push-ups as well as running. Cadets are expected to be in shape when they arrive. Remember that the Air Force Academy is in Colorado Springs, and high altitude makes running more difficult.


• Stay active in extracurricular activities. Time-management skills are vital at the Air Force Academy. The more practice you get in high school, the better.


• Take on leadership roles at work, school or on teams. Learn how to deal with problems that arise in these roles. The Air Force Academy exists to educate leaders. All cadets take on leadership roles during their time there.


• Visit the Air Force Academy if possible. Nothing provides a better idea of what the experience is like than seeing it first hand. Talk to recent graduates and read about the Academy as well.


• Learn about the Air Force. The more you know about aircraft, career opportunities and military traditions, the less foreign everything will seem.