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West Virginia Military Schools

West Virginia's military-style education includes the Mountaineer Challenge Academy for at-risk youth. There are no private military boarding schools in the state.

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School or Program Name Location Grades Gender Service Tuition Accreditations View
Graduate School (1)
American Military University crest
American Military University Charles Town, WV Graduate Co-ed All Branches Military Only
HLC
Challenge Academy (1)
Mountaineer Challenge Academy crest
Mountaineer Challenge Academy Kingwood, WV Ages 16-18 Co-ed National Guard Free eligible youth —
Last verified: January 21, 2026 Report Issue or Update Info

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National Guard Youth Challenge Academies: What to Expect

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State Guide

Understanding Military Education in West Virginia

Understanding Your Options

Youth Challenge Programs

Mountaineer Challenge Academy has served at-risk West Virginia youth since 1993. This free residential program operates two campuses—Kingwood (Camp Dawson) and Montgomery (opened 2020)—serving about 200 students ages 16-18.

Admissions & Residency Rules

Geographic Requirements

Mountaineer Challenge serves West Virginia residents ages 16-18. AMU accepts students nationally (online).

Intervention and Online Options

West Virginia offers an intervention program and online military university, but no traditional K-12 military schools.

Mountaineer Challenge Academy

Mountaineer Challenge Academy (2 campuses: Kingwood & Montgomery):

  • Founded: 1993
  • Enrollment: ~200 (across both campuses)
  • Type: Intervention for at-risk youth
  • Cost: Free
  • Notable: First WV Challenge graduate to receive West Point appointment

American Military University

AMU in Charles Town is a large online institution serving 100,000+ students—primarily military personnel and veterans pursuing degrees online.

Worth the Drive: Virginia Options

West Virginia's proximity to Virginia is an advantage. Six private military boarding schools are within 3-4 hours:

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any military boarding schools in West Virginia?

No. West Virginia's last military boarding school, Greenbrier Military School, closed in 1972. The closest options are in Virginia, which has six private military schools within 3-4 hours of Charleston.

What is Mountaineer Challenge Academy?

A free National Guard program for at-risk youth ages 16-18 in Kingwood. It's a 22-week residential program focused on GED completion—not a traditional military school.

What is American Military University?

An online college based in Charles Town that primarily serves military and veteran students. It's not a K-12 school.

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