Understanding Your Options
Youth Challenge Programs
Puerto Rico National Guard Youth Challenge Academy in Juana Díaz has operated since 1999, serving eligible at-risk youth ages 16-18 statewide. The program is free and—unlike most Youth Challenge programs nationwide—focuses on high school diploma completion rather than GED.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
All schools primarily serve Puerto Rico residents. The day schools require daily commute. Youth Challenge serves at-risk youth ages 16-18.
Multiple Affordable Military Day Schools
Puerto Rico is one of the few U.S. jurisdictions with multiple private military day schools—plus a free Youth Challenge option.
Three Private Military Schools
| School | Founded | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Military Academy | 1963 | Guaynabo | Contact school |
| Antilles Military Academy | 1959 | Trujillo Alto | ~$13,500 |
| Bayamón Military Academy | 1975 | Bayamón | ~$15,000 |
All three are coed day schools serving elementary through high school. Note: Puerto Rico private schools typically bill monthly ("mensualidad").
Puerto Rico's Advantage
Compared with mainland private boarding military schools (often $40,000-$60,000/year), Puerto Rico's day school options are more affordable at ~$13,500-$15,000/year. Families should verify tuition and fees with admissions and confirm any scholarship or voucher eligibility.
PR National Guard Youth Challenge
PR Youth Challenge Academy in Juana Díaz offers free intervention for eligible at-risk youth ages 16-18.
What Puerto Rico Lacks
None of Puerto Rico's military schools offer boarding. Families seeking boarding often look to Florida or Texas, which have direct flight connections from San Juan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is tuition more affordable at Puerto Rico's military schools?
Puerto Rico's private military schools are day schools (no boarding costs) and benefit from lower cost of living than the mainland U.S. At ~$13,500-$15,000/year, they're significantly more affordable than mainland boarding schools ($40,000-$60,000/year). Note: PR schools bill monthly ('mensualidad').
Do Puerto Rico's military schools have boarding?
No. All three private military schools (American, Antilles, Bayamón) are day schools—students commute daily. For boarding, PR families often look to Florida or Texas due to direct flight connections.
What grades do the Puerto Rico military schools serve?
All three serve elementary through high school, though exact grade ranges vary by school.
Are Puerto Rico's military schools accredited?
Yes. Accreditation varies by school: American Military Academy holds MSA and CAIS accreditation; Antilles holds MSA and CADIE; Bayamón holds MSA and CADIE. Verify current status with each school.