In-processing Day
What to Expect
Appointees arrive at the U.S. Air Force Academy on In-processing Day, also known as I-Day, marking their first step in their journey toward becoming a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force.
Appointees receive their reporting time and squadron assignment two weeks before I-Day. When they arrive here for in-processing, family members and/or friends may be permitted through the North Gate, but cannot exit their vehicle at the Holaday Athletic Center drop-off location. Our appointees will often take photos at one of our scenic overlooks.
Color Key
General Information
Sporting Event Specific
Religious Service
Traffic/Special Information
AF Academy Only
Attendees Key
*
Mandatory
A
All Appointees
I
Invitation Only
T
Ticket Req.
P
Open to Public
Monday, June 23, 2025
| Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 a.m.-2:45 p.m. | U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum Meet and Greet Meet an AOG Representative and have the opportunity to meet other parents and appointees prior to in-processing Registration/Tickets Required Register/More Information – $22.95 |
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum | P | Casual |
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
| Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Appointee and Family Welcome Day Meet and mingle with other appointees and their families and get to know Basic Cadets who will be in your basic cadet squadron Registration/Tickets Required Register/More Information |
The Association of Graduates | P | Casual |
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
| Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7-11:45 a.m. | I-Day Drop Off Your appointee’s leadership journey starts here |
Holaday Athletic Center | A,P | Casual |
| 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | Parent Program Parking Catch shuttle bus to Arnold Hall |
Falcon Stadium | P | Casual |
| 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Colorado Parents’ Club Picnic View Picnic Flyer |
Arnold Hall Patio | P | Casual |
| 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Write First Letter To your Basic Cadet |
Polaris Hall | P | Casual |
| 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | U.S. Air Force Academy Information Fair Search for answers, resources or join a parents’ club |
Arnold Hall Ballroom | P | Casual |
| 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Self-Guided Tour of Polaris Hall Named for the North Star, is home to the Center for Character and Leadership Development |
Polaris Hall | P | Casual |
| 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Planetarium Open House Sit back, relax and enjoy a show at the iconic U.S. Air Force Academy’s planetarium |
Planetarium | P | Casual |
Thursday, June 26, 2025
| Time | Event | Location | Attendees | Attire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-5 p.m. | Swearing-In Ceremony Witness your Basic Cadet take the Oath of Office |
Stillman Field | P | Casual |
Note: The schedule of events is tentative. Times and venues may change due to security, weather, or other circumstances.
(Last updated: May 15, 2025)
Your arrival at the U.S. Air Force Academy marks the first step of a 47-month transformational journey to become a warfighter and leader of character who is prepared to proudly serve and lead in our Air Force or Space Force.
Arrive prepared, motivated and ready to apply yourself to the challenges ahead.
Below are our commonly asked questions. All remaining questions may be emailed to USAFA.Parent.Liaison@afacademy.af.edu.
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How does an appointee who is 17 years old and travelling alone get overnight lodging in the Colorado Springs area prior to In-processing Day?
Minors traveling along should contact the parent liaison team at (719) 333-3828, usafa.parentliaison@afacademy.af.edu.
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Should appointees get a personal passport prior to arriving at the Academy?
A personal passport is not required for In-processing Day; however, many appointees obtain a passport prior to arriving at the Academy so that they are prepared for personal travel outside of the United States.
If unable to obtain a passport prior to arrival, the Academy’s Community Center Post Office, located a few miles from the cadet area, processes passport applications.
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What happens to the appointee’s original birth certificate during and after I-Day?
After Admissions personnel reviews the original birth certificate during in-processing to verify citizenship, it is returned to the appointee. The appointee will then be allowed to put the certificate in a locked box for safe keeping during BCT. They’ll be able to return it to their parents during Parents’ Weekend.
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Are appointees who graduated from the Academy’s Preparatory School allowed to bring their uniform items to I-Day?
Preparatory School students accepted to the U.S. Air Force Academy can bring their OCP uniforms, boots, and leather shoes; however, they will be issued new uniforms. Most cadet uniforms are not the same as Preparatory School uniforms.
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How should a cadet in-process if they are returning from an administrative or a medical turnback the previous year?
Cadets returning from a turnback may not be provided their BCT squadron information prior to I-Day and may arrive at the drop-off location at any time within the drop-off timeframe. Returning cadets with specific questions should contact Cadet Officer Accessions at 719-333-1043.
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How should a cadet returning from an administrative or medical turnback ensure their uniforms arrive at the Academy prior to I-Day and are available for them?
Returning cadets can work with their former Squadron Commander and/or Academy Military Trainers (AMT) to arrange delivery of their uniforms prior to I-Day.
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Are there accommodations for visitors with disabilities?
The Academy complies with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Visitors should bring their own state-issued handicapped parking pass with them to access handicapped parking in the Cadet Area, Visitor Center, Planetarium and Falcon Stadium. Visitors must also provide their own wheelchairs and other necessary medical equipment.
Due to the Academy’s hilly terrain, visitors with physical disabilities may need extra assistance at certain areas on campus. You may contact our Visitor Center front desk at (719) 333-2025 or e-mail visit@afacademy.af.edu for planning assistance. More information for Visitors with Disabilities.
Base Access during In-processing Day
- Complete the base access form and await instructions.
- Children under 18 are not required to submit a request.
- When entering the gate, have all vehicle occupants’ identification ready for presentation.
- If visitors have “No REAL ID” or “Not for Federal Use” on their Driver’s License, it will not be accepted without a valid second form of identification such as a birth certificate or social security card.
- If visitors do not have a passport or valid identification, they will not be allowed onto the installation.
| North Gate | South Gate |
|---|---|
|
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
|
Thursday, June 26, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Thursday, June 26, 2025 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. |
Foreign National Visitors
Visitors not on official business requesting access to the U.S. Air Force Academy are required to follow the guidance below:
- Individuals are required to present their passport, as copies or photographs will not be accepted for processing.
- After your information has been processed, you will be issued a pass, which must be shown to the sentry at the installation gate for entry, along with your passport.
- This process may take several business days.
The Pass and Registration Office (PRO) is situated outside the South Gate, accessible via I-25, Exit 150, on the right side of the road. Operating hours are from 7:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. It is important to note that the PRO will be closed for training purposes on the third Tuesday of each month. For any questions, contact the PRO at (719) 333-0441 or 10SFS.S5B@us.af.mil.
Parking
Parking for events on Wednesday of In-processing Day is at Falcon Stadium. Shuttle buses will run from Falcon stadium parking areas to Arnold Hall.
Cadet Area Access
Visitors must be escorted by a cadet or Academy staff with a Cadet Area Badge while in the Cadet Area. Visitors should not bring large bags or backpacks into the Cadet Area; bags will be searched at the bus stops and at the parade, potentially delaying your arrival at your destination.
Events in Secure Areas of the Base
For In-processing Day events taking place outside of the immediate Cadet Area or after visitor hours, all non-DoD visitors must be escorted through entry control points by a DoD ID card holder. DoD ID cardholders, including civilians, military, cadets, and base contractors, can vouch for up to 10 non-DoD affiliated people in the car which they are traveling. Plan to arrive early for In-processing Day activities in order to give yourself sufficient time to get through security to your event location.
Visitors with Disabilities
The Academy does not issue disabled or special parking passes, so please bring your own placard in order to access the Cadet Area disabled lot (immediately north of Stillman Parade Field) and disabled parking at the stadium on In-processing Day. Shuttles for visitors with disabilities will operate throughout the Cadet Area during the day.
General Base Driving Info
Please make sure to follow all posted speed limits when driving on the base. Note that seatbelts must be worn by all occupants at all times. Drivers may not use handheld cellular phones while the vehicle is in motion. If you need to make or take a call, please use a hands-free device or pull to the side of the road. Also, be aware that radar detectors are not permitted on base. Finally, keep in mind that wildlife such as deer, elk, and wild turkeys can be a hazard while driving at the Academy. Please be alert for them and drive carefully. Remember, they have the right-of-way!
If Force Protection Conditions change due to world events or events closer to home, some scheduled events may change or require additional security precautions for the safety of all our visitors. Any event changes will be widely publicized in local media, on our In-procssing Day web page and throughout the base.
Emergencies
If you have a medical, fire, or police emergency, please call 911 immediately.
There are several major medical facilities in Colorado Springs to handle medical situations:
- Memorial Hospital Central – (719) 365-5000
- Memorial Hospital North – (719) 364-5000
- Penrose-St. Francis – (719) 776-5000
- St. Francis Medical Center – (719) 571-1000
- On base, contact Security Forces – (719) 333-2000 or 333-4100
Holaday Athletic Center
Address: 1 Field House Dr. Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Holaday Athletic Center, an indoor athletic training facility, is also unique in that it is the largest privately funded capital project in Academy history.
Construction began in October 2010 and was completed in July 2011. The 92,000 square-foot center houses a regulation-sized field that can accommodate football, lacrosse and soccer, in addition to many other athletic activities.
Cadet athletic development and performance will be enhanced through reduced weather delays, increased practice time and improved replication of game conditions that the facility provides.
Arnold Hall
Address: 2308 Cadet Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Arnold Hall is the social center for the cadet wing and open to the public except under base restrictions. Named after the first general of the U.S. Air Force, Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, chief of the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II.
Arnold Hall is located just west of the Cadet Area and houses Arnold Hall Theater, Arnold Hall Ballroom, Richter Lounge Food Court, a coffee shop, meeting rooms, and recreational facilities open to cadets and visitors.
Polaris Hall
Address: Polaris Hall, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Polaris Hall, named for the North Star, is home to the Center for Character and Leadership Development. The CCLD is an inspiring example of the U.S. Air Force Academy’s focus on developing leaders of character for the nation’s Air Force and Space Force.
Crowned with an intricate framework of glass and steel, the 43,000 square feet Polaris Hall features a large, centrally-located lecture hall, state-of-the-art meeting and collaboration rooms, as well as the Honor Board Room.
Falcon Stadium
Address: 4900 Stadium Blvd, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
A picturesque setting at the base of the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains and boasting some of the grandest pageantry in all of college football, Falcon Stadium is without a doubt one of the premier college football stadiums in America.
Sitting at 6,621 feet above sea level, the thin air has been kind to the Falcons. Falcon Stadium’s elevation is the second-highest of any Division I-A stadium in the nation. The stadium’s current capacity is 39,441.
Falcon Stadium, built in a natural bowl in the foothills, was built in the fall of 1962 at a cost of $3.5 million. Falcon Stadium opened on Sept. 22, 1962, when a then-overflow crowd of 41,350 saw Air Force defeat Colorado State, 24-0. AFA held a formal dedication on Oct. 20, 1962, when Air Force hosted Oregon. The Ducks won the game, 35-20. The stadium was originally built solely for football, but several non-athletic events, such as the Academy’s annual graduation, are conducted there.
Doolittle Hall
Address: 3116 Academy Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
Home for the Association of Graduates. Walk the Heritage Trail and visit the Challenge Bridge, the Memorial Wall, and the Southeast Asia Pavilion. Doolittle Hall’s Gift Shop is open to the public 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Barry Goldwater Visitors Center
Address: 2346 Academy Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Visitor Center is the proud gateway for the one million annual visitors to our distinctive campus. Since we first opened our doors in June 1986, our 31,600 square foot sprawling facility has been the home to engaging exhibits, a movie theater, a gift shop, and a friendly staff who can help you plan your visit.
Our parking lot has ample free parking, wheelchairs are provided for those with limited mobility for building use only and cannot be taken outside the Visitor Center, and restroom facilities with diaper changing stations are located next to the entrance.
North Gate
Address: Interstate 25 – Exit 156
When entering the gate, have all vehicle occupants’ identification ready for presentation. Valid forms of photo identification include a driver’s license. Expired IDs will not be accepted. No one under the age of 18 is required to present a form of identification unless they are the driver.
Planetarium
Address: 2120 Cadet Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
We offer a diverse range of full-dome and IMAX films, live talks and educational events using our state-of-the-art 8K projection technology and immersive surround sound.
The U.S. Air Force Academy’s Planetarium enhances our Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach and cadet education mission through public shows, field trips, and cadet classes.
The Association of Graduates
Address: 3116 Academy Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840
The Association of Graduates is the alumni association of the U.S. Air Force Academy. We are dedicated to serving graduates, preserving the heritage of the Academy and Long Blue Line, and supporting USAFA in its mission to develop leaders of character for the Air Force and Space Force. We implement our mission in partnership and under a joint vision with the Air Force Academy Foundation.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Address: 200 S Sierra Madre St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is one of the best attractions in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Museum is dedicated to capturing and sharing the history of Team USA in the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as the hopes and dreams of future generations.
Please review the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Entry Policies
Entering Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field
All persons and personal belongings entering Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field are subject to search. Guests will have bags, purses and other hand-carried items manually searched. Leave prohibited items in your vehicle. We are not responsible for any items left at gates or trash receptacles.
| Permitted Items in Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field | |
|---|---|
| Food: Permitted if brought inside a transparent, one-gallon zip lock bag – one bag per ticket holder | |
| Sunscreen: Permitted, except for aerosol sprays. | |
| Beverages/Bottles: Only factory-sealed soft sided or empty, 24 oz. or less permitted. Note: exceptions will be made for medical conditions and infants. | |
| The Clear Bag Policy: Limits bags that may be brought into sporting events. The policy will help to provide a safe environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into all athletics’ venues. | |
| Prohibited Items in Falcon Stadium, Cadet Field House (Clune Arena) and Stillman Field | |
|---|---|
| Illegal substances (Note: Marijuana is an illegal substance on Federal property). | |
| Weapons (including, but not limited to: firearms, knives of any type/size, pepper spray/other aerosols, stun-guns, self-defense key rings/key chains, any item that may be used as a projectile or deemed unsafe by Venue Mgmt., and or Security personnel) | |
| Backpacks, camera/binocular cases, bota bags, camelbacks, mesh bags, large printed bags, large purse, tinted plastic bags, oversized tote bags. | |
| Alcohol, glass containers, bottles/cans, hard sided plastic bottles, open cups/containers | |
| Laser pointers, fireworks, or any item deemed unsafe by venue mgmt., or security personnel | |
| Unapproved banners/signs (no signs larger than 18” x 24”) | |
| Pets (other than ADA Compliant Service Animals) | |
| Sticks, bats, poles, umbrellas, frisbees, footballs/balls of any kind, including inflatable balls | |
| Artificial noisemakers of any kind | |
| Baby seats, large strollers (collapsible umbrella strollers are permitted) | |
| Any item that cannot be readily inspected | |
| No Flash photography, no camera sticks/tripods | |
| Smoking, vaping, or tobacco of any kind | |
| Aerosol sprays | |
| Seatbacks wider than 18 in. (no excessive pockets, concealable areas, or protruding arm rests) | |
| Note: there is no available storage of prohibited items; please take back to your vehicle | |
| Attendee Code of Conduct | |
|---|---|
| The following behavior will not be tolerated and may lead to automatic ejection | |
| Verbal/ physical harassment of home/visiting team, game mgmt. fans, game officials. | |
| Foul, obscene, offensive or abusive language, gestures or actions that are disruptive or illegal in nature. | |
| Ethnic intimidation of any kind. i.e. slurs based on race, sex, sexual orientation, religion or creed. | |
| Intoxication or signs of alcohol/substance impairment that results in irresponsible behavior. | |
| Fighting and/or any conduct that endangers/threatens the safety of others. | |
| Indecent exposure or the wearing of obscene or indecent clothing. | |
Please note that the Academy does not issue handicapped parking passes. Individuals are asked to bring their own state-issued handicapped (H/C) passes in order to access the handicapped parking lot in the Cadet Area (north of Stillman Field) or the handicapped lots at Falcon Stadium. Mobility impaired visitors should bring or rent any walkers, wheelchairs, breathing support or other special-needs or medical equipment they require.
High Altitude Health Concerns
The U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Area is approximately 7,300 feet above sea level. At this altitude, it is possible to contract an illness known as acute mountain or high altitude sickness. Symptoms may include headache, malaise, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath. Most cases are mild but the altitude may exacerbate other existing medical conditions. High altitude sickness usually resolves within a few days once an individual has adapted to the increased elevation. The best way to avoid illness is to allow yourself to acclimatize; try not to over-exert yourself in the first days after your arrival; make sure to drink sufficient fluids to avoid dehydration; don’t go sightseeing at higher elevations (i.e., up in the mountains) until after you have been in Colorado Springs for a few days; alcohol or drug consumption may worsen these symptoms.
Throughout your visit, please be prepared with comfortable walking shoes and water, since bus wait times may be long during peak periods. Note the local weather reports and dress accordingly. Although H/C and bus transportation will be available, there may be extensive walking required from bus stops to your final destination. Please make sure to consider this when bringing elderly or infirm visitors to the Academy. Because of the high altitude and possibility of extreme (hot, cold and/or wet) weather, visitors with serious medical conditions such as anemia, heart disease, or pulmonary disease should consult their doctor about the need for portable oxygen or preventive medication and the advisability of traveling to the Academy.
Transportation for visitors with disabilities
During Parents’ Weekend, specially equipped shuttle vans will transport visitors with disabilities from the disabled parking area (north of the parade field) to the cadet area and Stillman Field for the parade. These shuttles will attempt to get you as close to your desired location as possible. For events in the Cadet Area, shuttle buses that pick up visitors from the disabled lot just north of Stillman Parade Field will have special hydraulic lifts for wheelchairs. We recommend that visitors bring (or rent) foldable or portable wheelchairs for convenience with the shuttles. Please arrive early to account for loading, unloading, and wait times. Visitors should bring their own state persons with disabilities placards so the attendants know to direct you to the correct lot.
If you have any concerns about handicapped support during Parents’ Weekend, please call (719) 333-3828 or toll-free: (877) 268-3383 or email usafa.parent.liaison@afacademy.af.edu
Leadership Journey Starts Here
Welcome to the Academy
Leaders of character demonstrate moral excellence reflected in their values and behaviors. They set a personal example for all, whether in their units, organizations, or society. They respect the dignity of others and practice habits consistent with the Air Force core values by: Living Honorably, Lifting Others, and Elevating Performance.
The character development curriculum begins during Basic Cadet Training and continues throughout the four-year course of instruction. Our cadets engage in purposeful experiences and practice habits of thought and action so they can meet future challenges with dedication, sacrifice, stamina, and courage.
Jared Cruz, Class of ’24
Military & Strategic Studies
“I-Day marked the beginning of my transformation into a capable and confident leader. The foundation I built through military training on that first day set the tone for everything that followed—and continues to shape who I am today.”
David Sorrelle, Class of ’26
Management
Global Logistics Minor
“I-Day was single-handedly one of the most intense experiences I’ve had at USAFA, only rivaled by jumping out of an airplane and flying an F-16. The energy that day was unmatched, something I’ll never forget, as it marked the start of a new chapter for me and proved that USAFA is not for the weak, but for those who choose to rise to a higher calling.”