Des Moines Sun

Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is inviting Iowa high school students to apply for nominations to U.S. service academies. The deadline for submitting applications to Grassley’s office is Friday, October 24. Applications received after this date will not be considered, and final nominations will be determined by December 31, 2025.

“The service academies offer young Iowans the opportunity to receive a world-class education while serving our country,” Grassley said. “I’m honored to nominate Iowa’s best and brightest to these prestigious academies each year, and I encourage any interested student to apply.”

Students can access the nomination application through Grassley’s website. Completed applications may be delivered in person at any of his Iowa offices or mailed to: U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley, Attn: Nominations Coordinator, 721 Federal Building, 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309.

Applicants are also required to submit preliminary applications directly to their chosen academies and request that a pre-candidate file be opened on their behalf.

Each year, at least one student from Grassley’s nominations is selected by the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and U.S. Naval Academy. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy selects candidates based on proportional representation in Congress. Students are encouraged to apply to multiple service academies and seek recommendations from other federal representatives such as Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) or their House representative.

For additional information about the application process or requirements, students can contact Grassley’s Des Moines office at (515) 288-1145 or email academy_nominations@grassley.senate.gov.