<p>Good explanation Christcorp - </p>
<p>The data I have seen from USMA and USNA indicates about 400 Presidential nominations are given for each of those academies - I don’t know how many USAFA candidates qualify for Presidentials but I would have to say much more than 100.</p>
<p>Out of the total number of Presidential nominations the top 100 get appointments. The other 300 candiates - assuming they are qualified - need to have a Congressional or other nomination to win an appointment.
A nomination is no good without an appointment.</p>
<p>Cindybasket: Admissions can help determine if a candidate is eligible for a Presidential nomination. Like Christcorp says - apply for all nominations eligible - regardless.</p>