Admissions / Service Academy Prep Program / Self-Prep Program

NMMI Self-Prep Program

A self-prep at New Mexico Military Institute is a college freshman or sophomore who has chosen to attend NMMI with the specific goal of applying to one or more of the five federal service academies. He or she may have applied to an academy previously and not been admitted or may have just decided to apply. Often an Academy will suggest to a student that they spend a year at NMMI to become better prepared for application. A self-prep should declare their intention to enter the self-prep program after they apply to NMMI by speaking with an NMMI Admissions Counselor or the Service Academy Prep Director.

Qualifications for the Program:

NMMI requires a minimum score, but competitive applicants usually have: SAT: 1200+ (critical reading and math combined), and ACT: 26+ (composite score). NMMI requires A minimum SAT score of 1120 for Self Preps.

A minimum GPA of 3.2
The ability to pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA).
Demonstrated eligibility and capability to apply to academies – to include US citizenship or have the ability to obtain citizenship.
Must meet medical and physical standards as determined by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB).
Ability to receive Congressional, Representatives, Senators, Vice President, and a Presidential nomination.
Must be between 17 and 23 years old by July 1 of the year of entry.

Program of Study

Self-prep students follow a similar curriculum to sponsored preps, typically completing between 17 and 19 credits, depending on the academy’s requirements. Each semester, self-prep students generally take English Composition, at least one math course, Chemistry, and either Physics or History. They also participate in Military Science, Prep Physical Training, an ACT/SAT Preparatory Class, and a First Year Experience/Freshman Orientation course.

Degree of Success

NMMI: Where Leaders Are Made!

Historically, around 40% of self-preparatory students receive appointments to their desired academies, demonstrating a commendable success rate for qualified candidates. At NMMI, we are committed to guiding students on their unique journeys toward success. Should a student decide that attending a military academy is not the right fit, our dedicated Prep Program staff are here to assist in finding appropriate transfer schools, including options with both military and non-military scholarships.

Moreover, students who are not appointed to an academy have exceptional alternatives available to them, such as our Early Commissioning Program (ECP) and the opportunity to earn an Associate of Arts or Sciences degree from NMMI. These pathways not only provide valuable credentials but also empower students to remain competitive in their future pursuits.

It’s important to understand that appointments are awarded by the Service Academies based on competition within the candidate’s home state or district. Self-preps will seek nominations in their home areas and do not compete with other prep students at NMMI—unless they were residents of New Mexico before joining our institution.

From 2008 to 2013, our data indicates that 42 out of 108 self-preps received appointments, resulting in an impressive success rate of 38.89%.

Please Note: Cadets contracted in our ROTC ECP Program may only self-prepare for West Point due to contractual obligations with the US Army, which limit their ability to pursue commissions in other branches of service.

COSTS & SCHOLARSHIPS

Explore budgets and opportunities for you to become a NMMI cadet.

LEARN MORE

FINANCIAL AID

Allow us to work with you on packages to make your dreams of NMMI come true.

LEARN MORE

APPLY NOW

Take the first step on your NMMI journey.

APPLY

Ready to Launch Your Career at a Federal Service Academy?

At New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI), our Self-Prep Program is your launchpad for success, equipping you for the challenges of a prestigious military career.

Why Choose NMMI’s Self-Prep Program?

Unmatched Academic Excellence: Join a community of high achievers! Our students consistently maintain a GPA of “B” or better, ensuring they’re academically prepared for competitive service academies.
Targeted Test Prep: Receive personalized support to excel on the ACT/SAT. Our expert tutors guide you to standout scores, using USMMA benchmarks: ACT – 22E/24M; SAT – 520CR/560M.
Commitment to Service: If you’re passionate about serving your country, you belong here. We foster a culture of leadership, preparing you for a fulfilling 5-8 year military career.
Insight into Academy Missions: Gain a deep understanding of each service academy’s unique mission, equipping you to articulate your commitment during the application process.
Nominations and Connections: We provide guidance on securing nominations from U.S. Senators and House Representatives, maximizing your chances of admission.

Are You Ready? Here’s How to Qualify:

Maintain a high school GPA of “B” or better.
Meet or exceed ACT/SAT score ranges.
Commit to serving in the military for 5-8 years.
Demonstrate an understanding of the service academy’s mission.
Actively pursue nominations through a U.S. Senator or House Representative.
Be a U.S. citizen and meet NMMI and service academy entrance requirements.

Take the Leap!

Are you ready to start your journey? Apply to NMMI and connect with our dedicated Admissions Counselors. We’re here to guide you every step of the way toward a future filled with leadership and honor.