Frequently Asked Questions

Your role as a proud, supportive parent is an important one. To help you effectively communicate and support this new chapter of your cadet’s life, we’ve compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions. Each cadet’s experience is unique, so for all remaining questions we ask that you first reach out to them for the most timely and relevant information. To learn more, click here for FAQs.

Graduation

Graduation Week comprises of many activities and events across the U.S. Air Force Academy. Cadets and their guests take part in receptions, award ceremonies, baccalaureate services, concerts, parades, air demonstrations, and commissioning ceremonies. The week culminates at Falcon Stadium with the Graduation Ceremony. Speakers rotate between the President of the United States, Vice President, Secretary of Defense and Secretary of the Air Force. At the close of the ceremony, cadets are dismissed and ceremoniously toss their caps into the air. Cheers and celebration are quickly silenced by the roar of the legendary Thunderbirds flying overhead to honor the graduating class. Learn more about graduation.

Parents Clubs and Class Spirit Committees

Local parent clubs and class spirit committees are an essential part of the Academy experience, as they facilitate communication between the university and parents of cadets. These organizations provide opportunities to ask questions, voice opinions and grow personal networks, while supporting cadets by purchasing gifts and sponsoring morale events. Click here for more information.

In-Processing

In-Processing Day (I-Day) begins with the appointees lining up by squadron. Guests may watch as their appointees board buses, as this will be the final opportunity to see them before Parents’ Weekend. Appointees will be dropped off at the Cadet Area and begin immediately receiving instruction from upper classmen before heading up the Honor Ramp for the first time. Appointees will then take the Oath of Office and become a Basic Cadet. The Commandant conducts a ceremonial class Swearing In ceremony the following day, formally kicking off 6-weeks of Basic Cadet Training (BCT).

Check out the 2022 I-Day parent program.

Parents' Weekend

Parents’ Weekend is an exciting opportunity for cadets to reconnect with their family for the first time following Basic Cadet Training. It is held over Labor Day weekend and includes a Cadet Wing Parade, an Information Fair, and an opportunity for parents and cadets to attend Academic, Squadron, Athletic and Airfield open houses. Learn more about Parents’ Weekend.