Grassley, Ernst Announce Service Academy Virtual Informational Nights

August 21, 2026

by Press Release

BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – The offices of U.S. Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) will host two virtual informational events for Iowa students interested in applying to U.S. Military Service Academies in the fall of 2027 or 2028. The U.S. Service Academy Virtual Informational Nights will be held on Monday, August 31, and Tuesday, September 1.

Representatives from all five service academies will be available to answer questions about the application and nomination process. The Monday, August 31, session will be attended by representatives from the Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy and the Military Academy at West Point. The Tuesday, September 1, session will be attended by representatives from the Naval Academy and the Merchant Marine Academy.

Each year, Grassley and Ernst nominate current and future Iowa high school graduates for a select few academy positions. The deadline to apply for admission to the academic year beginning in the fall of 2027 is October 23rd, 2026.

WHAT: U.S. Military Service Academy Virtual Information Nights

WHEN: Monday, August 31, and Tuesday, September 1, from 6 - 8 p.m. CT

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: High school freshmen, sophomores and juniors who would like more information about attending a U.S. military academy. Parents, guardians and high school guidance counselors are also welcome to attend.

WHO IS PRESENTING: Academy Nomination Coordinators for Grassley and Ernst, and representatives from all five U.S. Service Academies

Iowans who wish to attend the virtual informational session must RSVP to receive a link to the event. Please RSVP directly to academy_nominations@grassley.senate.gov or by phone at 515-288-1145.

Iowans can contact Grassley’s office at 515-288-1145 and Ernst’s office at 515-284-4272 with any questions. Click HERE to view the Academy Nomination application and learn more.