The U.S. Naval Academy

Candidate Visit Weekend

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CVW Navigation 

Candidate Family Schedule Of Events

Candidate Schedule Of Events

Arrival, Access & Parking

Candidate Dining & Accommodations

Candidate Families - What To Know Before Arrival

Check-In

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Gallery

Packing List & Preparation

Post-session Candidate Family Survey

Post-session Candidate Survey

Required Candidate Forms

USNA Glossary Of Terms

Candidate Family Schedule Of Events

Candidate Schedule Of Events

Arrival, Access & Parking

Candidate Dining & Accommodations

Candidate Families - What To Know Before Arrival

Check-In

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Gallery

Packing List & Preparation

Post-session Candidate Family Survey

Post-session Candidate Survey

Required Candidate Forms

USNA Glossary Of Terms

Candidate Visit Weekend (CVW) is a program conducted aboard USNA during the Fall and Spring academic semesters to expose candidates to all facets of life as a Midshipman.

CVW is an opportunity to sample university-level academics at USNA, to discover whether the Naval Academy will help you achieve your goals, and to offer valuable insight into the admissions process.

CVW is offered by  invitation only  throughout the academic year.

Please explore this website, as it contains everything that you would need to know for your trip.

 

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Due to increased Force Protection measures increased screenings and security may cause delays. 

 

Candidate Schedule Of Events

Please note: parent/guardian attendance is optional

Thursday

4:00pm - Candidate check-in and candidate personal and luggage screening at Naval Station Support Annapolis former Navy Exchange parking lot (USNA CVW Check-in).

6:00pm - Welcome in Mitscher Auditorium (Juniors receive Admissions Brief, Seniors breakout session with Dean of Admissions)

6:45pm - Student is paired with midshipman escort for duration of visit β

Friday

7:45am - Morning classes begin (Candidates shadow Midshipmen to classes)

11:55am - Noon Meal Formation

12:05pm - Lunch 

12:40pm - Leadership Seminar in Mitscher Auditorium

1:40pm - Afternoon classes begin (Candidates shadow Midshipmen to classes)

3:00pm - Sports Period

6:30pm - Evening Meal

Saturday

6:30 a.m. - Candidate Fitness Assessment - Wesley Brown Field House

9:30 a.m. - Candidates gather belongings and transit to Alumni Hall

βStudents will experience a typical midshipman schedule with their hosts until student pick-up on Saturday morning  (Navy Marine-Corps Memorial Stadium Gate 5).

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Candidate Family Schedule Of Events

Please note: parent/guardian attendance is optional

Thursday

NO PROGRAMMING

Friday

8:15am - Buses depart from Navy Marine Corps Stadium (Parents/Guardians)

8:45am - Admissions Brief at Fluegel Alumni Center

9:30am - Admissions Panel at Fluegel Alumni Center (Parents/Guardians)

10:30am - Center for Academic Excellence presentation at Fluegel Alumni Center (Parents/Guardians)

11:00am - Midshipman Development Center Presentation at Fluegel Alumni Center (Parents/Guardians)

11:30am - Naval Academy Stockdale Center at Fluegel Alumni Center (Parents/ Guardians)

12:00pm - Buses depart Fluegel Alumni Center to Navy Marine Corps Stadium Parking or welcome to walk downtown Annapolis on own. 

†All vehicles must depart Navy Marine Corps Stadium by 10:00 p.m. Friday. 

βStudents will experience a typical midshipman schedule with their hosts until student pick-up on Saturday morning. 

ψLunch will not be provided. Our tourism site offers information about local accommodations. 

Saturday

9:40am-10:40 am Candidate Pick-up at Navy-Marine Corp Memorial Stadium (Navy Marine-Corps Memorial Stadium Gate 5)

 

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Arrival, Access & Parking

Transportation

  • Candidates and their family members must provide their own transportation to and from the Naval Academy.
  • The closest airport is  Baltimore-Washington International Airport  (BWI).
  • No bus or shuttle service is provided from BWI to USNA. Ride-hailing services (such as Uber or taxi) and car rental services are easily obtained at the airport.

 

Access Locations Based on Date

Date Event Access Time Frame Access Gate/Entrance Parking Event Location Event Audience
THUR Check-In & Welcome 4:00 - 6:00PM Candidate drop off at Naval Station Support Annapolis, formerly Navy exchange parking lot.  ( USNA CVW Check-in ) Drop-off only USNA CVW Check-in Candidates 
THUR Late Arrival 6:00 - 8:00PM Candidate drop off via Gate 8 Drop-off pin Gate 8 Candidates 
THUR Later Arrival 7:00 - 10:00PM Candidate drop off via Gate 8 Solo Candidates - Gate 8 Call Duty Phone 443-336-5359 Candidates 
FRI Parent Event Arrival 8:00 - 8:15AM Vehicle drivers/passengers park and then take coach buses from the stadium to Fleugel Center 

Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium - enter through Gate #5 Blue Parking -
NO PARKING ALLOWED AT FLUEGEL CENTER 

Fleugel Center Candidate Families
FRI Parent Departure 12:00PM Coach buses return to stadium from Fleugel Center Candidate Families
SAT Candidate Pick-up 9:40AM-10:40AM Buses will transport candidates from USNA to Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium via bus for pick-up. Curbside pick up at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium (Parents enter through Gate #5 Blue Parking) Curbside pick up at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium Candidates & Candidate Families

 

Access Requirements & Info

  • ID requirements for all persons: Please consult the  FAQ for USNA Access
  • All persons, belongings, and vehicles accessing USNA are subject to search.
  • Please consult this list for items that are prohibited at USNA
  • Have a printed copy of your CVW confirmation email to show at the gate.
  • Additional access points and times are available to DOD and military-credentialed individuals, please review details in the  FAQ for USNA Access .

 NOTE: Due to increased Force Protection Measures candidates luggage will be searched by base security at check-in.

Pedestrian Entry & Candidate Drop-off Outside Of Campus

Due to increased Force Protection Measures Pedestrian Entry from Parents will not be permitted without valid DoD or DBIDS ID cards. 

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Parking

Thursday Parking For Parents/guardians & Candidates

  • Free parking for Candidate families and Candidates dropping off candidates are available at Naval Support Station Annapolis in vicinity of the former Navy Exchange. 
  • Candidates driving solo must email cvw@usna.edu in advance of the weekend to coordinate parking with our staff prior to arrival.

Friday Parking For Parents/guardians

  • Free parking for Candidate families attending Friday’s CVW events will be located at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
  • Enter the parking lot through Stadium Parking Gate 5 .  The address is 511 Taylor Avenue.  The entrance is opposite Melrose Street.  The signage is marked Gate #5 Blue Parking.
  • Advise the gate attendant that you are a CVW guest to ensure no fee is charged.
  • The CVW program offers scheduled coach bus transportation from the stadium parking lot to Fleugel Center.
    • You may park in the stadium lot until 10:00pm only on Friday.
    • The stadium is a 1 mile walk (approximately 20 minutes) from Fleugel Center.

Additional Parking Notes

  • Parking off campus in Annapolis can be challenging. There is street parking as well as garages. We recommend you visit this site for more information: Parking in Downtown Annapolis
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Packing List & Preparation

  • Identification - Driver’s License, School ID, Passport
  • Pillow
  • Single bed sheet
  • Blanket
  • Bath towel
  • Toiletries
  • Shower shoes
  • Workout gear and closed-toed workout/running shoes
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Sleep attire that is appropriate for a co-ed environment
  • Swimwear and goggles (your Host Midshipman may have swim class) - an appropriate swim bottom for males and a one piece swimsuit for females
  • Casual clothing (jeans, khakis, casual pants, short/long sleeve shirts)
    NOTE: long pants are required while attending classes
  • Closed-toed comfortable shoes
  • OPTIONAL-credit/debit/prepaid cards or electronic payment for souvenirs or snacks
  • A printed copy of your confirmation email to show at the Access Gate when you arrive to USNA

Note:

  • You will likely be sleeping on a cot in your Host Midshipman’s room.
  • You will exit your host’s room for the restrooms.
  • Sandals and flip flops are prohibited, except within Bancroft Hall dormitory.
  • All attire must be appropriate and tasteful for a military installation.
  • USNA is a cashless facility.
  • USNA is not responsible for lost or stolen property.

Printed and signed copies of your Media Release Form and your Yard Patrol Liability Release Form

Printable Packing Checklist

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Candidate Dining & Accommodations

  • Candidates are encouraged to eat dinner prior to checking in. 
  • Candidates will receive a small boxed snack following the Welcome program on Thursday evening.
  • Candidates will eat meals with their Midshipmen Hosts in King Hall Dining.
  • Candidates will reside in Bancroft Hall (the Midshipmen dormitory) during their stay.
  • Candidates will be provided meals during their stay from breakfast on Friday morning through breakfast on Saturday morning.
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Candidate Families
What To Know Before Arrival

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Check-In

Check-In is held at the Naval Support Station Annapolis (USNA CVW Check-in) where candidates will be bused to Mitscher Hall for a welcome presentation.

  • Check-in begins at 4:00 PM and programming starts promptly at 6:00 PM.
  • If you arrive late between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, a staff member will assist you at Gate 8.  
  • If you arrive late after 7:00 PM, please call the Duty Phone 443-336-5359 for assistance.
  • Early Arrivals: Should you arrive prior to 4:00 PM on Thursday, please make your own arrangements, as there will be no programming, accommodations or staff available.

Required Forms

Please bring printed, completed, and signed copies of the following documents. Candidates under 18 years of age, must have a parent or legal guardian signature added.

Media Release Form
Yard Patrol Liability Release Form
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What if candidates have special dietary needs or allergies?
The meals in King Hall have a set menu and are served family style.  Most dishes contain meat, but the salad bar is open for lunch and dinner.  There is cereal and fruit available at all meals.  Life-threatening allergies cannot be accommodated; if necessary, please contact the CVW team at cvw@usna.edu.
What if candidates require medication?
As long as the candidate can administer their own medication, there is no issue.  Please note that refrigeration is not available for medications.
Do my parents/guardians have to attend CVW?

They do not, but the program is designed for them as well. You will have a completely independent experience of your parents/guardians.

May I get a letter showing I attended the program?
Yes, send a quick email to cvw@usna.edu and documentation will be provided on Navy letterhead.
Will candidates be ordered to do things?
As a candidate, you will be immersed into the Brigade of Midshipmen while shadowing a Plebe (Freshman). You will experience a military climate that may be very different than you may be accustomed to. This is an opportunity to help you determine if USNA is the right fit.
Will candidates take the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)?
You will be offered the opportunity to take the CFA on Saturday morning. It is not required, but strongly recommended that you do so. There is no limit to the number of times you may take the CFA and your highest CFA score will be used for your USNA application.
Will attending CVW help me get into USNA?
No. The process to offer appointments to USNA is completely separate from the Candidate Visit Weekend program. CVW is designed for candidates to get a better understanding of what it is like to be a Midshipman. Attending CVW offers no advantage to your USNA application,
Can candidates request a specific Midshipman Host or a specific Company?
No. The MIDN hosts are assigned by the Brigade Command and not by Admissions.
Can candidates attend a sports practice or visit with a Team Coach?
Candidates will shadow their Plebe Host and attend whatever classes and sports that their Host does. If you are a recruited athlete, the Coach or Team may invite you to visit USNA separate from the Candidate Visit Weekend program which is run by the Office of Admissions.
I am recovering from an injury, can I still attend CVW?
Yes. You are not required to participate in any physical training or take the CFA. Keep in mind there is significant walking on campus and the walkways are uneven. Take it slow and steady.
Does the general USNA access policy (no bag larger than a purse or backpack) apply to CVW candidates?
CVW candidates may bring a duffel bag or small rolling suitcase for their visit. All bags and belongings are subject to search.
Does the CVW program include attendance at USNA sporting events?
It does not. USNA would welcome you to attend events on your own. More information, including ticket purchases, can be found at NavySports.com.
How does a family member with mobility issues get around at USNA?
The Naval Academy is a historic campus that dates back to 1845. The campus features brick paver walking surfaces that are often very uneven, but can accommodate wheelchairs or mobility scooters with care used. Part of the candidate family experience is a walking tour. If you have mobility issues, a driving tour can be offered in its place. Please contact cvw@usna.edu at least 3 days prior to your visit to make arrangements.
I can no longer attend the session I'm registered for, can I change sessions?
If there is space available, we can switch you to another session or add you to a waitlist for another session. Please contact cvw@usna.edu to request a session switch. Should you need to cancel all together, please click on the Withdrawal link in your Invitation or Confirmation email.
Can we remain on the Yard after CVW programming is concluded?
Yes, you may remain for shopping, dining, viewing the facilities, attending sporting events or other activities.

USNA GLOSSARY OF TERMS

During your preparation and your visit at USNA, you will come across many words you may not be familiar with.  Here are a few that may be helpful for you to know. If anyone uses a word or acronym that you are not familiar with, please do not hesitate to ask for clarification.

  • Brief = a presentation of information
  • Brigade = the entire student body; the collective term for all Midshipmen
  • CFA = Candidate Fitness Assessment; a physical test that all Candidates must pass in order to obtain appointment Candidate Fitness Assessment as an Admissions Requirement
  • Commandant = the second-most senior officer responsible for training, conduct and day-to-day activities of the Brigade; similar to a Dean of Students at a civilian college or university
  • CVW = Candidate Visit Weekend
  • Plebe = a Fourth Class or Freshman Midshipman
  • Superintendent = the highest-ranking officer leading a service academy; similar to a college president
  • Yard = the USNA campus
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Contact Form

Please contact us via email with any updates or requests regarding your CVW.

If your request is urgent, please call 410-293-1858.

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This is an official U.S. Navy Web Site. URL: https://www.usna.edu   Page Last Updated: 2026-04-16