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<p>Well . . . yes and no. It is true that someone in the national pool competes vs. the entire pool. However, USNA still must consider geographic issues. Thus, within that national pool, if there are two equally qualified candidates – one from Nebraska and one from Maryland – and USNA can only pick one, I would generally expect them to take the one from NE. </p>
<p>Of course, it almost never comes down to the “one slot left” scenario, but to assume that, once you enter the national pool, where you live makes absolutely no difference just isn’t correct.</p>
<p>As for whether being in a “tough” district helps – first see my answer above. Attending a school known to have very high academic standards can help someone with a slightly lower class rank. However, the other “standards” for admission aren’t typically affected by the nature of the high school.</p>