Understanding Your Options
Youth Challenge Programs
Maryland has access to two Youth Challenge programs. Freestate Challenge Academy at Aberdeen Proving Ground is the primary option for Maryland residents—located on a secure military base, it provides a distraction-free environment. Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy (in Laurel, MD) primarily serves District of Columbia residents, though it may accept some Prince George's County applicants. Both are free 22-week residential programs.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
The Naval Academy accepts students from all 50 states and U.S. territories, with admission requiring a Congressional nomination. Youth Challenge programs serve Maryland residents who are at-risk youth ages 16-18.
The Naval Academy State
Maryland's military education story centers on one legendary institution: the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. Founded in 1845, USNA has produced generations of Navy and Marine Corps officers, including one U.S. President (Jimmy Carter), numerous astronauts, and countless admirals and generals.
The United States Naval Academy
The Naval Academy in Annapolis (about 30 miles from Washington, D.C. and 30 miles from Baltimore) is one of the most selective universities in America, accepting just 9% of applicants. Here's what families should know:
- Cost: Free. Midshipmen receive a full scholarship covering tuition, room, board, and a monthly stipend.
- Commitment: Graduates serve 5 years of active duty as Navy or Marine Corps officers.
- Admission: Requires a Congressional nomination, strong academics, leadership experience, and physical fitness.
- Timeline: The application process typically begins during junior year of high school.
Living in Maryland offers unique advantages for USNA-interested families: proximity to campus tours, admissions events, and the Summer Seminar (NASS) program for high school juniors. Tip: Contact your local Blue & Gold Officer (BGO) early—these volunteer admissions liaisons guide candidates through the application process.
Youth Challenge Programs
For at-risk youth ages 16-18, Maryland offers access to two free Youth Challenge programs:
- Freestate Challenge Academy - The primary option for Maryland residents. Located on secure Aberdeen Proving Ground (about 30 miles northeast of Baltimore)—parents love the "gated community" safety of the military base.
- Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy - Located in Laurel, MD (between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.) but primarily serves DC residents. Some Prince George's County applicants may be considered.
Both are 22-week residential intervention programs—not military enlistment programs.
Note: Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy was a historic Maryland military school. It is now simply "Leonard Hall" and no longer operates as a military school (uniforms and drill were discontinued years ago).
What Maryland Doesn't Have
Unlike neighboring Virginia (6 private military schools), Maryland has no private military boarding schools. Families seeking structured boarding school environments should look to Virginia (Fork Union, Hargrave, Fishburne, Randolph-Macon, Massanutten).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any private military schools in Maryland?
No. Maryland does not have any private military boarding schools. Families seeking this option typically look to Virginia (which has six private military schools) or New York (NYMA).
How do I get into the Naval Academy?
Admission to USNA requires a Congressional nomination (from your U.S. Representative or Senator), strong academics (top 20% of class), leadership experience, and physical fitness. Start by contacting your local Blue & Gold Officer (BGO)—these are volunteer admissions liaisons in your area who guide candidates through the process. The process typically begins junior year of high school.
What happened to Forestville Military Academy?
Forestville Military Academy, a public military high school in Prince George's County, closed in 2016 due to declining enrollment. It was Maryland's only public military high school at the time.
Are there any free military programs for teenagers in Maryland?
Yes. Freestate Challenge Academy at Aberdeen Proving Ground is the primary option for Maryland residents. Capital Guardian (in Laurel, MD) primarily serves DC residents. Both are free 22-week residential programs for at-risk youth ages 16-18.
Can Maryland residents get in-state tuition at the Naval Academy?
The Naval Academy is tuition-free for all admitted midshipmen regardless of state residency. However, Congressional nominations are allocated by state, so Maryland residents compete against other Maryland applicants for their state's slots.