USAFAI36-2008 — Cadet Sponsor Program

USAFAI36-2008 governs procedures for the U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Sponsor Program and sponsor participation.

Search USAFAI36-2008

  • Publication number: USAFAI36-2008
  • Title: CADET SPONSOR PROGRAM
  • Date: 2025-12-29

View USAFAI36-2008 on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses cadet mentoring, sponsor eligibility, applications, matching, background checks, and training. It requires annual background checks and initial and annual refresher sponsor program training.

Applies to: This instruction outlines the procedures governing the Cadet Sponsor Program and applies to everyone involved in this program.

Topics covered

  • Cadet mentoring
  • Sponsor eligibility
  • Sponsor applications
  • Sponsor matching
  • Annual background checks
  • DBIDS passes
  • Sponsor program training

Questions and answers

How close to USAFA must sponsors live?

Sponsors must reside within a 50-mile radius of USAFA. (paragraph 3)

Can a single sponsor sponsor a cadet of the opposite sex?

Single sponsors are only permitted to sponsor cadets of the same sex. (paragraph 3)

How old must sponsors be?

All sponsors, military and civilian, must be at least 28 years old. (paragraph 3)

Which military personnel are eligible to be sponsors?

Active duty, Reserve, National Guard, or Retired Officers (O-3 and above), and non-commissioned officers (E-6 and above) are eligible to be sponsors. (paragraph 3)

What must all sponsor applicants submit?

All applicants, regardless of military affiliation, must complete an initial sponsor questionnaire (with the option to renew annually) and submit a family introduction letter. (paragraph 3)

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