Most women ever for Coast Guard 2026

The United States Coast Guard Academy presents an unrivaled opportunity to attend an elite professional college that charges no tuition and guarantees a challenging and rewarding career upon graduation.

Located in New London, CT, approximately 200 graduates each year are commissioned as Coast Guard officers to help ensure the safety, security, and stewardship of U.S. waters.

When the incoming Class of 2026 arrives on June 27, there will be approximately 300 young women and men beginning their training to be future leaders of America’s multi-mission, maritime military force.

According to current estimates, about 43 percent of the new class are women, which will be the most in an incoming class ever, and that 38 percent are from underrepresented minority groups. Also expected to join the class are nine international students from the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, Vietnam, Honduras, Palau, Guyana, and Taiwan.

During their first day at the Academy, the Swabs (as the new cadets are called) start an intense seven-week training program – Swab Summer – designed to transform civilian students into military members ready to accept the challenges that await them in their pursuit to become Coast Guard officers.