Dream. Believe. Achieve.
The National Guard Youth Challenge Program gives youth a second chance to dream, believe and achieve goals that will benefit them for life. We invite you to learn more about the application process, below, and take a tour of the Hoosier Youth Challenge Academy website. We look forward to your application.
- Cadet Application
- Mentor Application
- On-Site Assessment
- Notification of Acceptance or Denial
- Regional Map
- You're accepted! What to do next
Complete and submit the full Cadet Application. Once the Academy has received your application, we will contact you. The initial call is very important, so if you receive a message from the Academy, be sure to return it as soon as possible. During this initial call, we will confirm receipt of your application, complete an application review and schedule you for on-site assessment. Your application will be reviewed by Academy staff to assess your eligibility. Be sure that any additional information you are asked to supply the Academy is returned within the designated timeframe. If any problems arise, contact your Admissions Counselor immediately.
Mentor Applications can be submitted separately from the Cadet Application, but must be received no later than Opening Day. It is imperative that you take time to find an appropriate volunteer who will be a good role model for the applicant. Mentors must meet Academy guidelines.
Attend your scheduled On-Site Assessment at Knightstown. Attendance of the Applicant and Parent/Legal Guardian is a requirement in the application process, but does not mean you have been accepted into the program. The date you are given is very important; please do your best to attend on this day. If scheduling conflicts arise, please call the Academy immediately.
At the On-Site Assessment, you will be given a lot of information to assist you in deciding whether you are truly committed to attending and completing the program, including:
- You will receive a briefing about the program and what to expect.
- Your uniform measurements will be obtained.
- Academy staff will review your application material.
- You will tour the HYCA campus
- You will participate in acclimation assessments and a personal interview.
- At the end of the day, you will know what information the Academy still needs in order to process your application.
- Only those files that are complete are eligible to be considered for acceptance into the next class.
You will be notified by mail of acceptance or denial into the program approximately one month prior to the HYCA Class start date. Acceptance information will not be given out over the phone. Please do not call the Academy unless you have not received a letter two weeks prior to the start date.
For eligibility requirements and more information, select the color key that represents the region that you are located, enter your information in the form fields and we will get back to you.
Congratulations! Here's what's next:
- Read through your packet very carefully and take all necessary steps.
- Begin working on ways to become a successful Candidate -- the more prepared you are, the more successful you are likely to be.
- Report on Opening Day. Please be sure to arrive on time. Opening Day is for the Candidate and Parents/Legal Guardian only. Space is limited. Avoid bringing additional family or friends. Families will move through a series of stations to make sure the Academy and the Candidate have everything they need.
- Participate in Acclimation. Acclimation is the first two weeks of the Academy and can be very stressful. You will learn the structure and routine of the Academy while working on overcoming homesickness. Acclimation is your time to show the Academy you are committed to the program and you have what it takes to make it to Graduation.
Military Department of Indiana | Indiana National Guard
