VMI Appointed Student Info - Barracks Bound

PFA & Training Program

Overview

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Lawrence Havird ’90 speaks at Matriculation.As an appointed student, the Commandant requests that you complete the VMI Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) prior to Matriculation in August. This assessment gives Commandant and Regimental staff members an early understanding of your current fitness level so they can prepare the most effective training activities for your first days as a cadet.

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Lawrence Havird ’90 speaks at Matriculation.

In addition to the required assessment, VMI is providing an optional 10-week fitness training program to help you build strength and endurance before you arrive. This program is similar to the one offered to students in the Summer Transition Program (STP) and is designed to prepare you for the physical challenges of the Rat Line.

Whether you’re already highly active or just getting started, this process will help set you up for success at VMI.

Why This Matters

The PFA provides:

  • A clear picture of each incoming cadet's fitness level
  • Better preparation for physical training during the early days of the Rat Line
  • Data to evaluate the effectiveness of the 10-week prep program, allowing for future modifications and improvements

Assessment Details

To ensure consistency and fairness, amongst commissioning and non-commissioning appointed students, VMI has adopted the Air Force Physical Fitness Assessment components for the VMI PFA. This assessment provides an appropriate baseline while aligning with ROTC standards.

Required Components

  • 1 Minute of Push-Ups
  • 1 Minute of Sit-Ups
  • A 1.5 Mile Run

How to Complete the PFA

  1. Download and print the official PFA instructions. Each component attachment includes space for the assessment administrator to record your scores.
    *Be sure to bring these printed instructions with you when completing the assessment.
  2. Arrange to have the assessment administered by a school coach, teacher, administrator, or guidance counselor. If you are homeschooled, a parent or guardian may serve as the test administrator.
    * If you are unable to have your PFA administered by a school official (coach, administrator, teacher, or counselor), please contact the Commandant’s Office at 540-464-7313 or by email for guidance.
  3. Complete the PFA in this order:
    1. Push-ups (Attachment 1)
    2. Sit-ups (Attachment 2)
    3. 1.5-mile run (Attachment 3)
    Note: The test administrator must read the instructions for each event before it begins and record your results on the printed sheets.
  4. After the PFA is completed, enter your scores into the Online Scorecard

Optional Help: View the USAF PFA Instructional Video to understand proper form and timing for each assessment component.

Deadlines for Scorecard Submission

Submit your completed online scorecard by the following deadline based on your deposit payment date:

Deposit Paid Date Scorecard Due Date
On or Before June 15, 2025 June 30, 2025
After June 15, 2025 August 1, 2025

Optional 10-Week Fitness Preparation Program

To help you prepare for the Rat Line, VMI encourages all incoming cadets to participate in a voluntary 10-week fitness training plan. This program will:

  • Build your physical readiness
  • Help reduce the chance of injury
  • Support your transition into the Rat Line

Download the 10-Week Training Program

Need Help?

Please contact Amanda Hostetter, Office Manager for the Commandant’s Office, with any questions or concerns:

540-464-7313