West Point Academic Review Board

June 14, 2026

A West Point Academic Review Board is governed by AR 150-1, available for download at this link.

Cadets can be referred to an Academic Review Board after failing a class, receiving a Military grade of "F," or failing a character development program. The following individuals make up the Academic Board:

the Superintendent;
the Commandant;
the Dean;
the Brigade Tactical Officer (BTO)
the Military Deputy Director of Athletics;
all Department Heads;
the Director of Admissions; and,
Others, as designated by the Superintendent

Any Cadet referred to an Academic Review Board will receive an email. The email will include the specific reason for the referral and inform the Cadet that he/she can provide an input letter for the Board to consider. The input letter is restricted to 1-2 pages and no additional letters of recommendation or supporting documentation is allowed.

The West Point Academic Review Board will review the input letter, the Cadet's complete record, and the reasons for the Academic Review Board. After a thorough review, one of the following decisions will be made:

retention with conditions (i.e. character development);
turn-back;
late graduate;
separation;
separation with recoupment

A Cadet will be notified about the result and given the opportunity to appeal a decision by the Academic Review Board. Appeals are typically due within 7-days. Unlike the letter of input, appeals can include letters of support and additional records. The appeal can, and should, include the following:

a personal statement providing additional information about what led to the failing grade in question;
additional statements/documents corroborating assertions made in the letter of input;
letters of support;
documents demonstrating potential as an Army Officer;
any relevant medical records; and,
any other relevant evidence

Any Cadet that is facing an Academic Review Board should immediately consult an experienced Military Defense Lawyer. A well-crafted input letter or appeal, which should include additional evidence collected by a lawyer, can result in a favorable result. While JAGs are available to assist, they are often over-worked, inexperienced, and unwilling or unable to provide adequate advice/assistance during a West Point Academic Review Board. A civilian Military Lawyer can be retained, which allows a Soldier to be represented by a proven lawyer with good former client reviews.

This Article was written by Attorney Matthew Barry. Attorney Barry, a West Point Graduate and former JAG, is highly rated by former clients and has a proven track record of success. He has extensive experience with all types of Military Adverse Actions, including those related to a West Point Academic Review Board.

The Law Office of Matthew Barry represents Servicemembers worldwide. He has offices on the East Coast, West Coast, and in the Central U.S.