Difference between the "dE Academy" and "Masters & Padawans"
Basically getting in the academy means you're gonna be getting good training from Jedi/Sith and Higher Ranks. It also means you will face lots of different trials and missions in order to get promoted to a higher rank. Having a Master means you're gonna be getting Dedicated and advanced training. The way it works is anyone can get into the academy (It's recommended that you do), and the most mature players from the academy might get a high-ranked player to learn from.
DE Academy
-All the Initiates/Padawan/Jedi/Sith are automatically placed in the dE Academy.
-If you're above the rank of Jedi/Sith, you have to ask the Council/Co-L/Emperor to be placed in the dE Academy.
-To fully succeed and pass the dE Academy you have to reach the rank of "Master."
Masters & Padawans
-Masters
Requirements: You can only be someones Master if you're ranked a Knight or higher. (Developers Don't count) You also can't be someones master if your on the same level (Ex: Knight & Knight; Champion and Champion, etc.)
-Padawans
Before becoming someones Padawan you have to be in the DE Academy. If you are then ask the Council/Co-L/Emperor if they can give you a master.