Frequently Asked Questions
Basic Cadet Training
- Are parents permitted to contact cadets by phone during BCT?
- Do basic cadets get plenty to eat?
- Do basic cadets have any free time?
- Do new cadets enter the BCT program immediately upon entering the Academy?
- How can I feel assured that I am physically prepared for BCT?
- I've heard basic cadets referred to as "Doolies." What does this mean?
- What events are scheduled for Parents' Weekend?
- What is the purpose of Basic Cadet Training?
- What type of training does BCT include?
- Why is it necessary for basic cadets to have their hair cut short?
- Will I be tested on my physical condition when I enter the Academy?
Fourth Class System
- Does the Fourth-Class System interfere with academic studies?
- How can parents help their son or daughter to excel in the Cadet Wing?
- What happens after Basic Cadet Training is completed?
- What is the Fourth Class System?
Cadet Life
- Are cadets required to pay income taxes?
- Are special dietary meals provided?
- How is a cadet assigned to a room and roommate?
- I have a tattoo, a brand, or a piercing. Can I be admitted?
- If I have problems adjusting to cadet life, can I seek help?
- What are the cadet dining facilities like?
- What is a cadet room like?
- What is a cadet's day like?
- What is the cadet equivalent to a student in a civilian university?
- What is the rate of pay for cadets?
- What items are cadets allowed to have in their rooms?
- What types of uniforms do cadets wear?
Academics
- Are cadets counseled on the selection of a major?
- Can cadets take elective courses?
- Can cadets transfer credits or validate courses?
- Can cadets with marginal grades seek help?
- Do all cadets take the same classes?
- Do cadets receive any special recognition for outstanding grades?
- Do parents receive transcripts of cadet grades?
- How are cadets graded on their courses?
- How does the Academy's academic program compare with other institutions?
- What library facilities are available?
- What type of facility does the Academy have?
- What type of instruction does the faculty provide?
- When do cadets first enter the academic program?
- When do cadets study?
- When is a cadet considered academically deficient?
- Where can cadets of all performance levels go to receive additional assistance?
Athletics
- Can a cadet be disenrolled for poor athletic performance?
- Do all cadets participate in the athletic program?
- Does the athletic program differ for men and women?
- What does the athletic program include?
- Why is the falcon the Academy mascot?
Military
- Are cadets graded on their military performance?
- What comprises the Academy's leadership program?
- What military courses are required?
Honor Code
- Does the Cadet Honor Code apply to all cadets in the wing?
- How does the Honor Code operate?
- What is meant by the term "toleration"?
Leisure
- Are cadets expected to attend certain social functions?
- Are cadets permitted to wear civilian clothes away from the Academy?
- What is meant by liberties?
- What leave periods do cadets have?
- What types of recreation are available to cadets?
- When do cadets attend chapel services?
- Where do cadets go on weekends?
Flying
- Are extracurricular flying courses available?
- Do cadets earn Air Force flying ratings?
- What flying courses are available?
- Will I have an opportunity to become a pilot or navigator?