Understanding Your Options
Public Military Academies
Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) in Highlands is one of the premier public military magnet schools in the nation. Founded in 1981, this highly selective school combines mandatory Navy JROTC with marine science education. With just 276 students and a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, MAST offers rigorous academics in a military environment.
Youth Challenge Programs
The New Jersey Youth Challenge Academy (NJYCA) in Sea Girt is a free 22-week residential program run by the National Guard since 1994. Small by design (40 cadets), it serves youth ages 16-18 who are at risk of not finishing high school. Its motto: 'Deeds, Not Words!'
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
MAST primarily serves Monmouth County students but accepts applications from throughout New Jersey (except Ocean County), with applications due in the fall of 8th grade. Admission is highly competitive. The NJ Youth Challenge Academy accepts applicants ages 16-18 — U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, who may reside in any state or territory.
A Premier Public Military Magnet School
New Jersey's military education is highlighted by MAST—one of the best public military high schools in the nation.
Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST)
MAST in Highlands:
- Founded: 1981
- Grades: 9-12
- JROTC: Navy
- Cost: Free (public magnet)
- Enrollment: 276
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 10:1
MAST combines Navy JROTC with marine science education in a highly selective environment. It's not just a military school—it's one of the top specialized public high schools in the region.
New Jersey Youth Challenge Academy
For at-risk youth ages 16-18, the New Jersey Youth Challenge Academy in Sea Girt offers a free 22-week residential program run by the National Guard since 1994 — motto: "Deeds, Not Words!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there military schools in New Jersey?
Yes — New Jersey has two military programs, both tuition-free: the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST), a highly selective public Navy JROTC magnet high school in Highlands, and the New Jersey Youth Challenge Academy, a free 22-week residential program in Sea Girt for at-risk youth ages 16-18. There are no private military boarding schools in the state.
Are there military schools for boys in New Jersey?
New Jersey's in-state options, including MAST and the NJ Youth Challenge Academy, are coed. The nearest all-boys military boarding schools are Virginia's academies — Fork Union, Fishburne, and Hargrave — which enroll boys from any state. New York Military Academy (coed, about 2 hours from northern NJ) is the closest boarding option overall.
How selective is MAST?
MAST is highly selective. The school enrolls just 276 students, and admitted students average a 3.73 GPA and a 1370 SAT. Applications are submitted in the fall of 8th grade, and admission is open to students statewide except Ocean County.
Is MAST free?
Yes. MAST is a free public magnet school, part of the Monmouth County Vocational School District.
Are there any private military boarding schools in New Jersey?
No. The closest options are New York Military Academy (2 hours from northern NJ) or Virginia's military schools (Fork Union, Hargrave) about 5 hours south.