Understanding Your Options
Youth Challenge Programs
Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy at Camp Shelby is Mississippi's only military-style program. Founded in 1993, this **completely FREE** 22-week residential program serves at-risk youth ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating. Run by the Mississippi National Guard, cadets can earn their GED or Adult High School Diploma, take the ACT, and earn **up to 15 college credits**—all at no cost. Graduates are eligible for **up to $2,000 in scholarships** for vo-tech, community college, or university. With over 11,600 graduates since 1994, this is one of the nation's most established Youth Challenge programs.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy serves Mississippi residents ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria and complete an application process.
One of the Nation's Longest-Running Youth Programs
Mississippi offers one military-style program through the National Guard—and it has one of the longest track records in the country.
Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy
Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy at Camp Shelby is Mississippi's only military-style program:
- Founded: 1993 (30+ years of operation)
- Type: National Guard Youth Challenge program
- Cost: Free
- Location: Camp Shelby (near Hattiesburg)
- Eligibility: At-risk Mississippi youth ages 16-18
Understanding the Program
Mississippi Youth Challenge is an intervention program, not a traditional military boarding school:
- For: Teens who've dropped out or are at risk of not graduating
- Focus: GED or Adult High School Diploma, ACT testing, up to 15 college credits
- Duration: 22-week residential phase + 12-month mentorship
- Cost: Completely FREE (National Guard funded)
- Post-Grad Support: Up to $2,000 in scholarships for vo-tech, community college, or university
With over 11,600 graduates since 1994, Mississippi's program is one of the nation's most established Youth Challenge academies.
Worth the Drive: Regional Options
Mississippi families seeking traditional private military boarding schools typically consider:
- Marine Military Academy (Texas) - 8 hours from Jackson
- Schools in Virginia - Multiple private military boarding options
For families who want their student to remain closer to home, Southern Preparatory Academy in Alabama is about 3 hours from Jackson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy a traditional military school?
No. Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy is an intervention program for at-risk youth, not a traditional college-prep military school. It focuses on GED completion and life skills for teens who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating.
Are there any private military boarding schools in Mississippi?
No. Mississippi does not currently have any operating private military boarding schools. Some schools that operated in the past, like Chamberlain-Hunt Academy, have closed. Families seeking private military boarding schools should look to Alabama, Texas, or Virginia.
How long has Mississippi Youth Challenge been operating?
Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy has been operating since 1993, making it one of the oldest and most established Youth Challenge programs in the nation—over 30 years of service.
Where is the Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy located?
The academy is located at Camp Shelby, a Mississippi Army National Guard training site near Hattiesburg in southern Mississippi.
Is Mississippi Youth Challenge free?
Yes. Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy is completely free. It's funded by the Mississippi National Guard and covers all costs including housing, meals, and education.