Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there an age limit for the ChalleNGe program?
- Are there any exceptions to the age limit?
- How long is your program?
- How much does your program cost?
- Is there visitation?
- How do I enroll my child?
- How do I get to the Thunderbird campus?
- Do I need to bring anything to my interview?
- My child is on probation, can they still attend?
- Can I SEND my child to your program?
- Does TYA have summer programs for younger children?
- Can you use tobacco while you are at TYA?
- Do you receive any job training while you are at TYA?
- Do you have to live in the state of Oklahoma to attend?
Is there an age limit for the ChalleNGe program?
YES. Applicants must be 16 - 19* years of age.
*NOTE: Attn: 19 Year Olds - The ChalleNGe program has been granted a waiver effective Jan. 2008 allowing 19 year olds who DO NOT turn 20 before graduation to enter our program.
Are there any exceptions to the age limit?
NO. But the National Guard Bureau has granted a short term waiver allowing 19 year olds who won't turn 20 before graduation to enter the program beginning with Class 30 starting 13 January 2008.
How long is your program?
17 1/2 Months - 22 week (5 1/2 months) Residential Phase and after graduation the 12 month Post-Residential follow up program with a mentor.
How much does your program cost?
It is free to Oklahoma residents meeting the entrance qualifications.
Is there visitation?
NO. There are a few mandatory weekend passes where cadets are checked out by parent(s)/guardian(s) for the weekend. However, cadets are allowed to receive mail and we encourage frequent, positive mail from family and friends.
How do I enroll my child?
All youth applying for the next class will need to contact a Recruiter at the Academy and request an application or download an application, fill it out completely and then submit it to TYA. Once your completed application is received, someone will contact you to set up an interview.
How do I get to the Thunderbird campus? There is a link to get Google Map driving directions to Thunderbird on the Directions page under How to Apply.
Do I need to bring anything to my interview?
When attending an interview the applicant must be accompanied by one parent/legal guardian. The applicant will need to bring all application originals if their application was faxed. Also, if the applicant is still missing any paperwork it must be brought with them. Bring originals or photocopies of the following items: Birth Certificate, Social Security Card, Insurance card, CDIB ( if applicable).
My child is on probation, can they still attend?
NO. Youth cannot be on probation, have pending court dates or charges against them and attend. You may be able to work an arrangement out with the D.A., Judge, or Parole Officer. They are familiar with our program, but that is strictly between you and the court system; the Academy cannot and will not get involved. TYA cannot accept youth in any form of state custody, DHS custody or OJA.
Can I SEND my child to your program?
That depends, do they want to attend? TYA is a voluntary program and the youth must be willing to attend. Cadets have the ability to request to leave throughout the cycle.
Does TYA have summer programs for younger children?
NO.
Can you use tobacco while you are at TYA?
NO. We are a tobacco free program.
Do you receive any job training while you are at TYA?
Some students who obtain their GED early have the opportunity to take up to 6 hours of OSU-Okmulgee classes. Other students will have the opportunity to take part in our Job-Shadowing Program, where they visit different job sites and observe/participate in different career fields, to get some ideas for their future employment.
Do you have to live in the state of Oklahoma to attend?
YES. You must be a legal resident of the U.S.A. and an Oklahoma resident.