Admission to the USAFA is highly competitive and requires applicants to meet strict academic, physical, and medical standards. The application process includes a nomination from a member of Congress or other authorized nominating source, as well as a rigorous selection process that includes a candidate fitness assessment, interviews, and academic evaluation.
Once admitted, cadets undergo a rigorous military and academic training program designed to develop leadership, character, and physical fitness. The curriculum includes courses in math, science, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and military studies. Cadets are also required to participate in military training and physical fitness activities, including basic military training, field training, and summer training programs.
Upon graduation, cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the United States Air Force and serve a minimum of five years on active duty. Many graduates go on to successful careers in the Air Force, while others pursue careers in the private sector or attend graduate school.
Air Force Academy Chapel
The chapel’s unique design is instantly recognizable, with its 17 spires rising 150 feet above the ground, representing the spires of a fighter jet. The interior features a soaring, triangular-shaped sanctuary with seating for 1,200 people, as well as stained glass windows that depict various scenes from the Bible.
The chapel serves as a place of worship for cadets of all faiths, with separate chapels for Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist services. It is also open to the public for tours and visits, and hosts numerous special events and concerts throughout the year.
In addition to its religious significance, the Air Force Academy Chapel is considered a masterpiece of modernist architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
At this time, the Air Force Academy Chapel is currently closed to visitors for renovations. USAFA Chapel renovations are expected to be completed by 2026.
Air Force Academy Barry Goldwater Visitor Center
The U.S. Air Force Academy has currently begun construction on it’s new Visitor Center and Air Force Hotel which will be located just outside of the North Gate entrance. The new visitor center will bring a tremendous upgrade to USAFA and provide visitors with new and enhanced ways of learning about the Air Force Academy’s history, athletics, and culture.
The visitor center features a variety of exhibits and displays that highlight the academy’s role in training and educating future Air Force officers. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view historical artifacts and memorabilia, and learn about the academy’s academic and athletic programs.
In addition to its exhibits and self-guided tours, the visitor center also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase Air Force Academy memorabilia.
Overall, the Air Force Academy Visitor Center is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history and mission of the United States Air Force Academy, as well as for those interested in military history and culture.
Air Force Academy Football and Stadium
The Air Force Falcons football team has a long and storied history, dating back to its first season in 1955. The team has won numerous conference championships and has played in several bowl games, including the Rose Bowl and the Cotton Bowl. The team has also produced many successful NFL players, including Chad Hennings, Ben Garland, and Weston Steelhammer.
The USAFA football team plays its home games at Falcon Stadium, which is located on the academy’s campus in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Falcon Stadium has a seating capacity of over 46,000 and provides a stunning backdrop for college football games and Air Force Academy Graduation.
