The VMI Three-Legged Stool leadership development model of regimented military training, rigorous academics, and robust physical training requires cadets to excel both mentally and physically throughout their time in Barracks.

The experience at VMI requires an advanced level of commitment towards high physical standards.  New Cadets reporting to VMI in poor physical condition and/or overweight are at high risk for injury and will struggle to achieve VMI fitness standards during their first year. 

Struggles within the physical leg of the Three-Legged Stool due to a New Cadet’s injury or inability to complete physical and military training activities alongside their Brother Rats often will correlate to a New Cadet experiencing challenges in quickly forming bonds with their classmates and struggles within their academic studies.  New Cadets entering VMI physically prepared, meanwhile, tend to assimilate to the VMI system more seamlessly and connect with their Brother Rats faster. 

VMI Physical Standards:  VMI’s weight and body fat standards are outlined in General Order 20, Fitness Standards Governing the Admission of Cadets.  Applicants’ weight may be considered in the initial admissions process. Once applicants receive an initial appointment, those who are determined during the medical evaluation process to be overweight or above the body fat limit will be asked to provide evidence of their level of physical conditioning.

Prospective cadets should review cadet fitness requirements to ensure they meet minimum standards. The weight standards will also be reviewed during the medical evaluation process for students who have been conditionally appointed. Applicants who are not in compliance with physical standards may be denied entry to VMI. 

VMI Fitness Test (VFT):  Fitness at VMI is measured through the VMI Fitness Test (VFT) which is administered at least once each semester.  Each cadet receives a diagnostic fitness test in the first half of the semester, and cadets achieving a passing VFT score can count the diagnostic test as their semester VFT.  Cadets who do not pass the diagnostic fitness test will have an additional opportunity to record a passing VFT score prior to the start of the semester exam period each academic term.

Most New Cadets will complete their VFT requirement within their selected Service ROTC unit whereby three components from the Service ROTC unit fitness test are used to calculate a cadet’s VFT score.  International student and non-commissioning cadets, meanwhile, complete the VFT. 

The VFT consists of a 1.5-mile timed run, pushups, and sit-ups.  The test is assessed on a 100-point scale:  1.5-mile timed run (60 points), pushups (20 points), and sit-ups (20 points).  A cadet must achieve the minimum passing score in each component of the VFT AND an aggregate composite score of at least 75.0 to pass the VFT.  The component minimum and maximum passing standards for each VFT component are outlined in the tables below.

Once a prospective cadet accepts an appointment to VMI and pays their initial deposit, they will receive instructions to complete a diagnostic VFT and receive an optional physical training program to help prepare them for Matriculation.  Prospective cadets are encouraged to review  General Order 31, Corps of Cadets Physical Training Program, for further guidance on the VMI fitness program. 

ROTC Branch Requirements: Cadets are expected to meet ROTC-specific requirements. Each service conducts two or more service-specific fitness tests each year and has service-specific height/weight and body fat standards.

Cadets pursuing a commission must meet these requirements and pass the service-specific fitness test. Cadets who are on ROTC scholarship risk losing their scholarship if they cannot meet fitness and weight standards.

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