I know several kids, including a couple of cousins' kids, who have gone to a service academy. One I know dropped after sophomore year, one sooner and several completed their 4 years. There is no obligation to pay back if you leave before you start your junior year. They know there is going to be some attrition during that time, because a certain number of kids are going to get there and realize this isn't for me. Kind of a no strings attached chance to back out if you find out it isn't for you allows the academies to get some kids in who probably wouldn't go if there was no practical way out once enrolled. You have essentially one last chance after your sophomore year. After that, you have to pay back tuition for year you attended if you don't finish or accept a commission as an officer after graduating. And, if you do leave after you have started your junior year or refuse a commission once graduated, you will likely be ordered (compelled) to serve several years as an enlisted airman in addition to repaying tuition. I have been told they make those rather unpleasant years. Bottom line is this kid has no financial debt owing to AF if he just attended one semester.
