Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced the application process for nominations to U.S. service academies has opened for the 2026-27 school year.
Exceptional student leaders and scholar-athletes in Indiana’s Fourth Congressional District may be nominated by Congressman Baird to one of four U.S. Service Academies – U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy (West Point) and the U.S. Naval Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination at this time.
“Attending a service academy is an honor steeped in history and a privilege,” said Congressman Baird. “Students have the opportunity to pursue a top tier education while serving their country. The academies are competitive and rigorous schools, but they are well worth the determination. It is my privilege to assist and nominate Indiana’s best and brightest on their paths to becoming the next generation of America’s leaders.”
The service academies offer a fully funded four-year education, including tuition, books, and board. Upon completion, graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as officers in their respective branches of service. The privilege of attending a service academy requires a five-year commitment to military service upon graduation.
Candidates must be U.S. citizens and, on July 1 of the year of entry, be at least 17 years old but not yet 23 years old to enter any of the academies, except the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, which has a maximum age of 25.
While a nomination is required to gain admission to a service academy, it does not guarantee admission. The admissions process is extremely competitive; therefore, interested students should prepare all application materials well in advance.
The admissions criteria includes: strong academic performance and standardized test scores, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Candidates must have a demonstrated history of strong leadership, community involvement, and receive an official Congressional nomination (except for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, which does not require a nomination).
Up to 10 individuals may be nominated for each vacant academy slot allotted to our district.
The deadline to submit an application for an academy nomination is Friday, November 6, 2026.
The application can be found here.
For questions, please contact the office of Congressman Baird at 202-225-5037.