Vachallenge Hero, Commonwealth ChalleNGe Youth Academy

What is ChalleNGe?

A quasi-military alternative education program for youth seeking a structured academic setting.

How do I Apply?

Virginia residents, 15 1/2 – 18 years old, who have become off-track or withdrawn from public school.  Read about our application process.

Success Stories

See what our past graduates are saying about our program

Upcoming Events

Classes begin every January and July. Check with us about scheduled events.


The Virginia Commonwealth ChalleNGe Youth Academy offers two cycles: The Fall cycle begins in July and the Spring cycle begins in January.

Applications will be accepted through mid-December for enrollment in the January class and through mid-June for enrollment in the July class. Space is limited so early applications are encouraged.  Applications will be processed and reviewed as they are completed. After your application is received and reviewed you will be notified of decision via email.

Our primary communication regarding the status of your application is by email so be sure to keep an eye out for updates.

Start the Application Process

QUESTIONS?

If you have questions about the program, please contact one of our admissions staff by calling (757) 491-5932 or e-mail admissions@vachallenge.org.

How to Apply

1

Check Eligibility

If your teen will be 15 1/2 – 18 years old at the start of our next class, they may be eligible for our program.
Eligibility Requirements

2

Attend an Orientation

It is mandatory that everyone attends an orientation and participate in an interview to be accepted. This also greatly increases your chance of success at the academy!

3

Submit Application

Download, print, and complete the Student Application. Follow all instructions to fill it out completely; incomplete applications will not be processed.
View Application

Cadet Bruno from Class 54 is continuing his journey at Liberty University. Cadet Bruno earned his GED while attending ChalleNGe and never looked back. He will be majoring in Business… Read more »

Cadet Bruno, Class 54
College, Liberty University, Business Major

Cadet Sheridan was falling behind in school. She was lying, stealing and giving her teachers a hard time, just so she could go hang out with friends. One day, she… Read more »

Cadet Sheridan, Class 45
United States Coast Guard

Cadet LaPara from Class 51 hit the ground running when he graduated from Commonwealth ChalleNGe. He returned to his high school and graduated. Upon graduation he was accepted into Florida… Read more »

Cadet LaPara, Class 51
College, Florida Southwestern State College, Major Undecided

It was a great program that gave me a second chance and gave me the second chance to finish high school and to graduate.

Cadet Shepherd, Class 42
Massage Virginia Beach

I was a former cadet here in Class 26 Challenge taught me a lot of leadership, discipline etc. I was in the second platoon. At first I was nervous because… Read more »

Cadet Williams, Class 26
Holiday Inn

PHYSICAL ADDRESS
1208 S. Birdneck Rd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

MAILING ADDRESS
253 C Street
State Military Reservation
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS:
Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
PHONE: 757-491-5932

ADMISSIONS PHONE:
Phone: 757-491-5932 ext. 235, 231 or 254
Fax: 757-491-2146


© 2025 Commonwealth ChalleNGe Youth Academy