Duckworth now accepting applications for Class of 2026 Service Academy nominations

SPRINGFIELD - U.S. Senator and combat Veteran Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and now serves as Chair of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Airland, announced on Monday that her office is now accepting applications through her website from high school students seeking a Congressional nomination to a United States Military Service Academy.

Each year Duckworth, along with a nomination committee, selects from the applicants a group of outstanding Illinois students to receive Congressional nominations to attend West Point, the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy or the Merchant mariner Academy. Information on how to complete Duckworth's academy nomination application can be found on her website at www.duckworth.senate.gov/help/academy-nominations.

"It takes a special kind of young person to succeed at a U.S. Military Service Academy," said Duckworth. "The rigorous nomination process demands outstanding test scores, a high GPA and a commitment to community service. I encourage all interested Illinois students to apply for a nomination through my website, and I applaud their desire to serve our country."

Service academies allow young people to serve their country while receiving a full four-year scholarship. Upon acceptance of an appointment into an Academy, a student commits to five years of active duty service after graduation. U.S. citizens between the ages of 17 and 23 may receive appointment from one of the four service academies.

In order to be considered, a student must get a formal nomination from their Member of Congress, Senator or the Vice President. Students must apply directly to the Military Service Academy and elected official of their choice in order to be considered.

A nomination does not guarantee an offer of appointment.