VA ChallengeAn official website of the Commonwealth of Virginia Here's how you knowAn official websiteHere's how you know

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Virginia residents, 15 1/2 – 18 years old, who have become off-track or withdrawn from public school.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 Hill graduated from CCYA in August of 2016. The leadership, motivation, and discipline he gained while attending CCYA propelled him into the United States Army. He enlisted into the… Read more »

Cadet Hill, Class 45
United States Army (Radio and Communications Security Repair 94E)

About Commonwealth Challenge

The Mission of the Virginia National Guard Commonwealth ChalleNGe Youth Academy is to intervene in the lives of 16-18 year old teenagers by providing the values, skills, education, and self-discipline needed to produce responsible, productive citizens, and to do so in a highly structured learning environment.

Commonwealth ChalleNGe VISION

The Vision of the Virginia National Guard Commonwealth ChalleNGe Youth Academy is to be recognized as Virginia's premiere program for potential, or actual, high school dropouts or transfer students from Virginia's high schools, and to provide eligible teenagers throughout Virginia the opportunity to participate in an alternative educational program that helps them become productive contributors to America's future.

Inquiry Form

Refer a Student

Do you know of a teenager who is ready to change his or her life, but is finding it hard to do? A young person who is falling behind in high school, who is in danger of dropping out, or who has already called it quits? Well, Commonwealth Challenge is here to offer a FREE second chance to help turn that young life around! We are state and federally funded. There is NO CHARGE for tuition to attend Commonwealth Challenge Youth Academy.

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