Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)

You only get one official CFA attempt. Preparation matters.

Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)

You only get one official CFA attempt. Preparation matters.

Train smart. Test once. Perform with confidence.

West Point builds leaders who are mentally and physically strong.

The CFA ensures you’re ready for:

  • Cadet training
  • Military field exercises
  • Team-based athletic performance

It’s pass/fail — but performance impacts competitiveness. You are given feedback on the quality of your CFA results, and you may retake it as many times as you like.

CFA Events

You will complete (in order):

  1. Basketball throw
  2. Pull-ups (or flexed arm hang for female applicants)
  3. Shuttle run
  4. Modified sit-ups
  5. Push-ups
  6. One-mile run

Events are completed consecutively with timed rest periods.

Who Can Administer the CFA

  • PE teacher
  • JROTC instructor
  • Field Force Representative
  • Military officer or NCO
  • During Summer Leaders Experience

How to Prepare

Start Now

Upper body strength and mile run are most demanding.

Train for Test Conditions

Simulate:

  • Correct order
  • Required rest periods
  • One full consecutive run-through

Focus Areas

  • Pull-up strength
  • Push-up endurance
  • Core strength
  • Running speed

Timeline Context

Junior Spring

  • Begin training

Senior Fall

  • Take official CFA

Candidate Fitness Assessment FAQs

Can I retake the CFA?
Yes. Admissions will provide you feedback on the strength of your CFA score and you have the option to retake it and submit new scores. Only your best score will be used for admissions consideration.

Is there a minimum score?
There are minimum standards, but competitive scores are much higher.

What if I fail?
Train and retest. Taking your first CFA early is highly encouraged so you have time to improve if needed.

Ready to Begin?

Confidence comes from preparation.

Train early. Perform once. Move forward.

Start your application
Contact your regional admissions officer

Experience West Point for Yourself

A visit may help you decide if USMA is where you want to be.

  • Tours (for students and parents)
  • Overnight candidate visits (by invitation)
  • Summer Leaders Experience (between junior and senior year)

Schedule a visit

Majors and Minors

Choosing a major is a big decision, but you don’t have to make it before applying to West Point. Academic advisors – and the annual Majors Fair – will help choose your academic path.

Browse majors and minors Learn more about academic departments

Still Not Sure?

Discover what makes West Point a unique, tuition-free experience — and how it prepares you to become a leader. Along the way, you'll take part in one-of-a-kind traditions and forge lifelong friendships and memories.

Learn what makes West Point unique Learn how USMA develops character