Louisiana residents between the ages of 16 and 18 are eligible to attend YCP. Applicants should have a strong desire to complete a structured and disciplined program, and must attend an interview in order to apply.

Louisiana operates three Youth Challenge Programs. Each camp conducts two classes per year, and is open to applicants throughout the state. Camp Minden near Shreveport begins classes every February and August. Training Center-Pineville, formerly Camp Beauregard, near Alexandria begins classes every January and July. The Gillis W. Long Center near Baton Rouge begins classes every April and October.

No. Although YCP is administered by The Louisiana National Guard, students are not required to join the military. All students take the ASVAB, and interested graduates that meet specific eligibility qualifications and requirements may enlist in the military branch of their choice.

During the 5 month Residential Phase students attend daily classes with certified instructors and work at their own pace to improve their math and reading skills in order to increase their individual grade level. Those students who meet state eligibility requirements are provided the opportunity to test for their high school equivalency diploma.

In collaboration with Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) near Shreveport, LA, The Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program is proud to offer students exciting educational opportunities while enrolled in the Residential Phase of YCP. Students who qualify to participate in the BPCC program have the potential to earn up to 15 hours of college credit. In addition, YCP graduates are also eligible to attend and earn scholarships to the Job Challenge Program that provides vocational skills and entry level certification to aquire critical career skills.

No. This term is often affiliated with the court system. YCP is a military style alternative educational program. Students cannot be sentenced or court ordered to attend. The decision to attend should be made by the applicant and family. Each year a diverse group of teenagers from all across the state, and from all walks of life successfully complete the program.

During the 5 month Residential Phase there are opportunities for cadets to visit family and friends. Each camp hosts a Family Day. Additionally, cadets are sent home for an extended weekend visit during a scheduled home pass. Otherwise, students correspond with family and friends through letter writing, and place phone calls home once per week.

There is no tuition associated with the program. All uniform, meal, educational, and housing costs are provided free of charge!

To obtain a copy of your GED/HiSET transcript please visit the Louisiana's Community & Technical Colleges website to request one. Their website is www.lctcs.edu. Scroll to the bottom and click Adult Education and select "Get a Copy of my HiSet/GED Transcript" or click the link here!

National Guard Youth Challenge has 37 locations in 29 states across the United States and Puerto Rico. To find a location in the state you reside in or to view the National Guard Youth Challenge website,  click this link and find more information.