INDIANAPOLIS — High school students and families across Indiana interested in pursuing careers as military officers will have a unique opportunity to explore their options next month. The office of U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) has announced it will host the annual U.S. Service Academy Day.
The informational event is scheduled for Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET. It will take place at the historic Indiana War Memorial, located at 55 East Michigan Street in downtown Indianapolis.
The event is designed for students who want to learn more about the unique undergraduate experience and rigorous training offered by the nation’s prestigious service academies.
Liaisons and representatives from the major institutions—including the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy—will be on-site. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions directly and gather vital information regarding academic requirements, physical standards, and daily life as a cadet or midshipman.
Securing an appointment to a federal service academy is a highly competitive, two-tiered process. In addition to meeting standard university admissions requirements, applicants must secure an official nomination from an authorized source, most commonly a member of the U.S. Senate or House of Representatives.
Staff members from Senator Banks’ office will be present to break down the congressional nomination process. They will provide comprehensive guidance on application timelines, required essay submissions, interview procedures, and the specific guidelines Hoosier students must follow to be considered for the class entering in the summer of 2027.
Strict Security and RSVP Requirements
Due to the nature of the venue and the participating organizations, advanced registration is mandatory for all guests. Attendees must RSVP by emailing academies@banks.senate.gov.
For mandatory security clearance purposes, the email RSVP must include the following verified details for every guest planning to attend the event:
- Full legal name (First, Middle, Last)
- Date of birth
- Driver’s license number and the state of issuance
