@mcfamilyof4 For service academies (USAFA, USMA, USNA & USCGA) apply to the summer leadership programs. Each program is one week in length. Only available to students during summer between junior & senior years of high school. Competitive admissions as many do not get an invitation, but rejection does not mean that one will not be admitted to the academies–unless due to disqualifying health issue. While not necessary for service academy admission, it can help in very substantial ways while allowing the prospective student to get a brief sample of the service academies. (Merchant Marine does not, to the best of my knowledge, offer a summer leadership program.)
There is a good bit of misinformation about these programs on this website posted by a parent whose son never attended any of the seminars, but is at a service academy. My son was accepted to all four & attended three (West Point, Annapolis & Colorado Springs). The benefits & the experiences are incredible.