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Virginia residents, 15 1/2 – 18 years old, who have become off-track or withdrawn from public school.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 Cole Johnson from Class 52, Recently enlisted into the United States Army. His MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) will be 11X Infantry, he hopes to continue his training and become… Read more »

Cadet Johnson, Class 52
United States Army (Infantry Recruit)

Challenge changed my life. I met numerous inspirational people, some of whom I still communicate with to this day. Excellent program for our misguided youth. A little tough in the… Read more »

Cadet McAllister, Class 31
Government Contractor

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

We are excited for our Class 52 graduate Cadet Reyes. He has recently enlisted in the United States Army and is attending Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He is… Read more »

Cadet Reyes, Class 52
United States Army

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