History of central nervous system shunt
History of central nervous system shunts of all kinds including endoscopic third ventriculocisternostomy
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D212.20 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to history of central nervous system shunt 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 central nervous system shunts of all kinds including endoscopic third ventriculocisternostomy.”
“History of infectious processes of the central nervous system, including, but not limited to, encephalitis, neurosyphilis, or brain abscess.”
“History of congenital or acquired anomalies of the central nervous system or meningocele.”
“History of chronic nervous system disorders, including, but not limited to, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, tremor, and tic disorders (e.g., Tourette's Syndrome).”
“History of recurrent syncope, presyncope, or atraumatic loss of consciousness, including altered level of consciousness, unless the applicant has been off all relevant medication and experienced no recurrence during the last 24 months, excluding a single episode of vasovagal reaction with identified trigger such as venipuncture.”
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.
Read Our Full Guide on Neurological Conditions
Learn how DoDMERB evaluates neurological conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.
Read the neurological guide