The Academy admits approximately 150 new students to the freshman class and accepts transfer students if places are available.

Currently, the Academy admits only male applicants after 3-years attendance at Armed Forces Academy Preparatory School.

From 1876 until 1962 the Academy had not admitted any African-American cadets.

The Academy admitted its first female students in 1973.

The Academy also admits foreign students who are willing to obtain Canadian credit courses.

In the 35 years between the Civil War and 1900, the Academy admitted 12 African American cadets, with three graduating.

The American Academy of Arts and Sciences admitted Glen H. Elder in 1988.

In 1907, the Academy admitted legal scholars for the first time.

The Academy admitted its first pupils in September 2012.

In 1972 the American Academy of Arts and Letters admitted Nivola as its first non-American member.