<p>There are some great threads that describe both on this forum - I searched titles for ‘Foundation’ or ‘NAPS’.</p>
<p>That said, here is my understanding: As far as I can tell, both programs provide a preparatory year before entering USNA. There seem to be a total of around 360 ‘spots’ in the programs - 300 in NAPS and 60 in Foundation. The USNA Admissions Board makes the recommendation for one or the other if they feel the candidate (and USNA) would benefit from the prep year. From other posts, the candidates offered spots tend to be deemed as having great potential as officers but need buffing up in academics/consistency/etc.</p>
<p>NAPS is a specific school in Rhode Island that ‘preps’ candidates for USNA, USCGA and the Marine Maritime Academy. The prep candidates enlist in the Navy and go through their year. If successful, with good recommendations, they seem virtually guaranteed a spot in the subsequent USNA Class. There is no cost to attend NAPS (as far as I can tell).</p>
<p>‘Foundation’ is actually a charitable foundation that has approved some 20 or so private prep programs across the country. When the Admissions Board recommends an applicant to Foundation the process moves to a Foundation- Candidate conversation about which school might be the ‘best fit’. If accepted, there seems to be some level of financial support available based on need - the schools vary widely in cost. The applicant’s family picks up the cost beyond any aid offered. Upon successful completion and good recommendations, the candidate also seems virtually guaranteed to enter the subsequent USNA Class.</p>
<p>I can’t help with the actual process because we’re at the point that S has letter in hand but no contact yet with the Foundation! We’re very very excited - he worked hard for this.</p>