The physical demands at VMI require our students to be healthy. New cadets who report to VMI overweight or in poor physical conditioning will struggle to meet those demands during their rat year and may therefore leave VMI.

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 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 conditioning.

Prospective cadets should review these requirements and ensure they are in compliance. 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 may be denied entry to VMI. 

VMI Fitness Test (VFT): Fitness at VMI is further measured by the VMI Fitness Test (VFT), which is administered twice each semester. The VFT consists of a 2 mile run, sit-ups, and pull-ups. A cadet’s performance on this test is scored. Those who cannot pass the VFT are placed in remedial physical training and, as applicable, referred for dietary counseling. While not part of the admissions process, the requirements, found in General Order 31, provide guidance for preparing to join the ranks at VMI.

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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