In-processing Day
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.
Most years, appointees are dropped off at the Holaday Athletic Center. Individual I-Day reporting times, squadron assignments, mailing addresses/post office box numbers, and further reporting instructions are posted on each appointee’s Admissions Portal approximately two weeks prior to In-processing Day.
Family members and friends cannot exit their vehicle at the drop-off location so appointees say their goodbyes prior to arrival.
I-Day activities include records processing, taking the Oath of Office, haircuts, uniform and equipment issue, orientation briefings, and introduction to military training.
Appointees are provided meals, snacks, and water throughout I-Day but should eat a good breakfast and be properly hydrated prior to drop-off.
Parents, family members, and guests participate in a welcome program following drop-off. Activities may include senior leader briefings, a welcome picnic hosted by the Colorado Parents’ Club, a Family Fest hosted by the Association of Graduates, and an information fair.
The Visitor Center and the Association of Graduates retail area located in Doolittle Hall will also be open.
The following day, the Commandant of Cadets conducts a ceremonial class swearing-in ceremony at the Stillman Parade Field, formally kicking off Basic Cadet Training.
Guests may view the ceremony from the Stillman Field stands, however, there will be no contact with Basic Cadets.
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Can appointees take a tour of the Academy?
Yes, our Admissions Office conducts tours for appointees along with other outreach events across the country. Visit the Admissions website for information and tour registration.
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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. -
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. -
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 Air Operating Commander (AOC) and/or Academy Military Trainers (AMT) to arrange delivery of their uniforms prior to I-Day.