History of recurrent syncope and/or pre-syncope
"History of recurrent syncope and/or pre-syncope, including but not limited to black out, fainting, loss or alteration of level of consciousness, or medications to treat/prevent within the preceding 2 years"
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D102.94 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to history of recurrent syncope and/or pre-syncope do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“History of recurrent syncope or presyncope, including black out, fainting, loss or alteration of level of consciousness (excludes single episode of vasovagal reaction with identified trigger such as venipuncture) unless it has not recurred during the last 24 months while off all medication for treatment of this condition.”
“Unexplained cardiopulmonary symptoms (including, but not limited to, syncope, presyncope, chest pain, palpitations, and dyspnea on exertion) in the last 12 months.”
“The following abnormal electrocardiograph patterns: (1) Long QT (QTc of more than 470 milliseconds in males or more than 480 milliseconds in females); (2) Brugada Type I pattern; or (3) Ventricular pre-excitation pattern that does not meet the qualification criteria in Paragraph 6.11.g.”
“Any personal history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or a family history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, unless the applicant is asymptomatic with a normal echocardiogram performed within the last 12 months.”
“History of recurrent myocarditis or pericarditis.”
What You Can Do Next
- 1Don't panic — a DQ code is not a rejection. Many candidates receive disqualification codes and still earn appointments to Service Academies or ROTC scholarships. Focus on strengthening every other part of your application while addressing the medical issue.
- 2Understand the waiver process for your path. For Service Academy candidates, your admissions officer initiates the waiver request. For ROTC candidates, your detachment handles it. You cannot request a waiver directly from DoDMERB — it must come through your commissioning source.
- 3Be the strongest candidate possible. Waiver authorities consider the whole person — academics, athletics, leadership, and character. The more competitive your overall application, the more likely a waiver request will be initiated and approved.
- 4Gather the right medical documentation. Specialist evaluations, treatment records, and evidence that the condition is resolved or well-managed can make or break a waiver request. Knowing exactly what documentation to submit — and how to present it — matters.
- 5Get expert guidance early. LTC Kirkland (Ret.) has guided hundreds of Academy and ROTC candidates through the DoDMERB process, with medical review support from COL Cajigal (Ret.). A single consultation can clarify your waiver options and develop the right strategy for your specific situation.