Boys State Scholarship

Boys State Scholarship

Overview: American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for high school students. It is a participatory program where each participant becomes a part of the operation of his local, county and state government.

Background: Boys State has been a program of The American Legion since 1935 when it organized to counter the Fascist inspired Young Pioneer Camps. The program was the idea of two Illinois Legionnaires, Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, who organized the first Boys State at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

Program Details:

Eligibility: High school juniors are selected by local American Legion Posts to attend the program

Funding: In most cases, expenses associated with attending this program are paid by a sponsoring American Legion Post, a local business or another community-based organization

Geographic Scope: Available in 49 states (excludes Hawaii)

Related Program: The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similar program for young ladies called Girls State