How Much is the Air Force Academy?
The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is a prestigious four-year service academy that offers a free education to students in exchange for a five-year service commitment to the US Air Force. The Academy is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and attracts students from all 50 states and over 70 foreign countries.
Cost of Attendance
The good news is that attending the Air Force Academy is essentially free. As a military service academy, the Air Force Academy covers the cost of tuition, room, and board for all its students. In fact, the Academy estimates that the total cost of attendance is over $65,000 per year. However, the Department of the Air Force absorbs this cost, and students do not have to pay a penny.
| Year | Estimated Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | $65,445 | Tuition, room, board, fees |
| 2nd | $65,445 | Tuition, room, board, fees |
| 3rd | $65,445 | Tuition, room, board, fees |
| 4th | $65,445 | Tuition, room, board, fees |
Living Expenses
While the Air Force Academy covers the majority of expenses, students will need to pay for a few additional living expenses, such as:
- Personal expenses (sundries, entertainment, etc.): $2,000-$3,000 per year
- Clothing and uniform: $200-$500 per year
- Books and supplies: $500-$1,000 per year
- Miscellaneous (travel, etc.): $1,000-$2,000 per year
These expenses can be covered by the Academy’s financial assistance program or the student’s own financial means.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
While attending the Air Force Academy is essentially free, the Academy does offer additional financial aid and scholarships to help students cover some of the additional living expenses. Some of the options include:
- Need-based financial assistance: Up to 100% of demonstrated need
- Academic and merit-based scholarships: Up to 100% of tuition
- Department of Defense (DoD) tuition assistance: Up to $250 per month
- Outside scholarships: Competitive scholarships available to students
Career Opportunities
Upon graduation from the Air Force Academy, cadets receive a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, and math) and commission as an officer in the US Air Force. With a salary of around $38,000 per year, and promotions every two to three years, graduates can earn a significant amount of money in their lifetime.
Career Advancement Opportunities
- Fast track promotions: Officers are eligible for promotions every two to three years
- Job security: Officer positions are considered secure
- International opportunities: Officers have the opportunity to serve in foreign countries
- Retirement benefits: Officers are eligible for a comprehensive retirement package
Conclusion
Attending the United States Air Force Academy is an incredible opportunity that comes with a plethora of benefits. With no tuition to pay, the Academy is an attractive option for students looking for a top-notch education. In addition to the free education, cadets also receive a guaranteed commission in the US Air Force, with competitive salary and promotion opportunities. While some living expenses are not covered, the Academy’s financial assistance program and additional scholarships can help make up the difference. Overall, attending the Air Force Academy is a smart financial decision for students looking for a life-changing experience.
Important Note
To be eligible to attend the Air Force Academy, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 17 years old but not older than 23 years old
- Be a high school graduate or have earned a General Education Development (GED) certificate
- Be physically qualified
- Be mentally qualified
- Pass the Cadet Physical Fitness Test
- Maintain a high level of academic achievement
- Pass a background investigation and security clearance process
