Understanding Your Options
Youth Challenge Programs
Alaska Military Youth Academy is Alaska's only military-style program. Founded in 1994, this free 22-week residential program serves at-risk youth ages 16-18. Run by the Alaska National Guard, AMYA focuses on GED completion, life skills, and character development.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
Alaska Military Youth Academy serves Alaska residents ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating.
Alaska's Free Military-Style Program
Alaska's one in-state military program is the Alaska Military Youth Academy (AMYA), a tuition-free National Guard Youth Challenge program with more than 6,800 graduates since 1994.
Alaska Military Youth Academy
Alaska Military Youth Academy at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson is Alaska's only military-style program:
- Founded: 1994 (30+ years of operation)
- Graduates: 6,800+ since 1994
- Type: National Guard Youth Challenge program
- Cost: Free
- Eligibility: At-risk Alaska youth ages 16-18
- Impact: Accounts for 25% of all GED credentials earned in Alaska
AMYA features unique Alaskan elements including Native Youth Olympics participation and "Green Line" Adventure Training (outdoor survival skills in Alaska's wilderness).
Out-of-State Boarding School Options
Alaska's geographic isolation means families seeking traditional military boarding schools must travel to the lower 48. Tip: Many families use their annual Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) to help offset travel or tuition costs.
- Army and Navy Academy (Carlsbad, CA) - Boys, grades 7-12
- New Mexico Military Institute (Roswell, NM) - Coed, ~$24,700/year total cost for out-of-state cadets (2026-27)
Alaska 529 funds can be used for K-12 tuition at out-of-state schools (up to $20,000/year as of 2026).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Alaska Military Youth Academy (AMYA)?
Alaska Military Youth Academy is a tuition-free, 22-week residential National Guard Youth Challenge program at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson for Alaska residents ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating.
Are there any private military schools in Alaska?
No. Alaska has no private military boarding schools. AMYA is the only military-style program, and it's an intervention program for at-risk youth.
Is Alaska Military Youth Academy free?
Yes. AMYA is tuition-free for eligible Alaska residents, run by the Alaska National Guard through the National Guard Youth Challenge program.