Air Force Academy High School
Chicago, IL
"WE ARE THE FORCE"
The Verdict
Founded in 2009, Air Force Academy High School holds the distinction of being the only wall-to-wall public Air Force Academy high school in the country. Located in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago's South Side, the school combines rigorous academics with mandatory JROTC participation, embodying its core values of excellence, integrity, and service.
The school features a unique flight simulator laboratory—the first and only in Chicago Public Schools—providing students hands-on experience in aerospace science and aviation fundamentals.
About
Air Force Academy High School is a tuition-free CPS college-prep school (grades 9-12) — the nation's only public Air Force academy high school, with a flight simulator lab.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
open
Key Requirements
- Chicago Public Schools enrollment
- Complete magnet school application
- Sign agreement to follow program rules and JROTC requirements
- Participate in shadow day visit
Admitted Student Profile
990
Avg SAT
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
Urban campus
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
131
Student:Teacher
7:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
Standard CPS school day with integrated JROTC curriculum throughout; students wear uniforms daily and participate in military formations
Discipline Model
Military-style discipline with cadet rank structure, uniform inspections, and adherence to Air Force core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
75% of graduates pursue postsecondary education
Scholarships Earned
JROTC Leadership Education & Training certification earns CPS Early College credential
Where Graduates Go
Students receive preparation for service academy applications through JROTC leadership training
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
JROTC Leadership Education & Training courses fulfill CPS physical education requirements; includes drill, fitness training, and military ceremonies
Facilities
On-campus gymnasium and athletic facilities; flight simulator laboratory for aerospace training
External Ratings
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Official Federal Data Sources
Verify information directly from U.S. Department of Education databases:
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Guides & Resources
Chicago's 6 Free Public Military High Schools (CPS)
Chicago Public Schools operates six tuition-free military high schools—the largest public military academy system in America. How to apply and what to expect.
Free Military Schools: 4 Tuition-Free Options
Yes — four options charge no tuition: public military academies, charter schools, service academies, and Youth Challenge. Private boarding runs $25,500-$67,000.
How to Evaluate a Military School Like an Insider
How to evaluate a military school before you enroll: read the Cadet Handbook, eat in the mess hall, and watch for 6 red flags that reveal the real culture.
What Is a Military School?
A military school is a college-prep school that uses military structure — uniforms, rank, and drill — not a boot camp. The 4 types explained, including free options.
Virginia Private School Tax Credit: EISTC Cuts Tuition 65%
Virginia's EISTC gives a 65% state tax credit for donations to scholarship foundations — a $10,000 gift can cost ~$2,625 and fund private military school tuition.
Cadet Life: Daily Schedule, Dorms & Roommates
What cadets actually do all day at military boarding school — the 6 AM to 10 PM schedule, room inspections, TAC officers, phone rules, and roommate life.