Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 4/4/2009

Question
I'm currently a SPC in active duty Army, in Afghanistan, trying to go Green to Gold or West Point. I have the packet for GTG but it says I need SAT/ACT scores. I never did either of them, any tips?
Plus, how does one get into West Point?

Answer
Matthew:
Tips for the ACT/SAT.. hrmm. it wouldn't hurt to get one of those study programs for your computer if you've not been in school for a while.  That depends on when you need to take the test, though, as those programs can take a bit to get you up to snuff. I would highly recommend at least taking a few practice exams, though, so you know where you stand.

As far as West Point, getting in isnt bad for a Soldier. www.usma.edu has the whole procedure, but essentially you need to go to that site, start a file, and then proceed with the steps they ask you for on there. You can't be older than 23 by the time you get in, and they may offer you a chance to go to the Prep School if they think you need some academic boost in math and english before you go to the Academy.  You'd be applying for the Class of '14 (admission next summer). Try it and see what happens.. its not a bad thing to do. If you get to that site and have questions, please feel free to reply to this and I'll do what I can to answer them.