Rounds Encourages High School Seniors to Submit Applications for Nomination to U.S. Service Academies

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) is currently accepting applications from high school seniors who are looking to attend a U.S. service academy after graduation.

"Each year, I am honored to nominate our nation's future military leaders to U.S. service academies," said Rounds. "By attending an academy, not only will students have the opportunity to serve our nation and help lead the best military in the world, but they will receive an excellent education at a top-notch institution. I encourage young South Dakotans looking to answer the call of duty to consider applying to one of our service academies."

Applications for the 2026-2027 freshman class (Class of 2030) are due by October 10, 2025. Nominations are available for the following institutions:

• The United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs
• The United States Military Academy at West Point
• The United States Naval Academy at Annapolis
• The United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point

Those interested in learning about the academy application process can reach out to Rounds' Rapid City office at (605) 343-5035 or [email protected]. An informational packet and the application packet can be found on Rounds' website at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/constituents/academy-nominations.

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