The prospective student must:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be at least 19 years of age (graduates less than 21 years of age must wait until they turn 21 years of age to take the P.O.S.T. Test for Peace Officer Certification.)
• A high school diploma from an attendance- based, accredited high school and not an on-line or computer-based high school program;* or the equivalent (GED)
• Possess a valid Missouri driver's license
• Have no DWI or related arrest in last 3 years
• Have no drug or related arrest in last 3 years
• Not have an active Full Order of Protection against them
• Pass the ASSET Test in basic reading and writing skills (Minimum of 50% combined average.)
• Obtain physician's examination / release to engage in physical fitness program that will include jogging, running, push-ups, sit-ups, flexibility and cardiovascular exercises.

* Students who graduated from a non-public high school must provide documentation that the school is accredited by the Department of Education from that state. Students who graduated from a non-accredited high school must submit a GED certificate or have completed the ACT test with a score of 18 or better. For locations on GED programs/test or ACT testing, call Barbara Quas at (417) 873-7329.

Everyone attending the academy must submit their fingerprints for a background check. Instructions on how and where to be fingerprinted (apx. cost of $55.00) are included in the application packet sent to those that passed the ASSET Test. Students with any criminal or moral arrests/convictions are subject to review by the academy director, who may deny entrance based upon the arrest or conviction. ALL students will be drug tested at least once during the academy. A positive illegal drug test result will result in termination form the program.