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    Your future. Your choice. Your opportunity to serve.

    Military Pathways & Resources for Students and Families

    In partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, we are connecting students, educators, service members, and families with military-related educational and career opportunities across Pennsylvania. Explore tools, programs, and pathways that support informed decisions about education, service, and career development.

    Image a a military man with his son on his shoulders.

    For Educators & Counselors

    ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP)

    The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery  (ASVAB) Career Exploration Program (CEP) helps students in 10th grade and above discover their aptitudes, interests, and values while providing free online tools to explore and plan careers across more than 1,000 occupations. These include business, government, non-profit, and the military available to all students regardless of post-secondary plans.

    Minuteman Scholarships

    The Army Reserve Minuteman Scholarship (part of the Minuteman Campaign) provides full tuition, fees, or room and board for up to four years at ROTC-hosting colleges while training students as future leaders in the U.S. Army Reserve through the Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty program.

        The GRFD Minuteman Scholarship aims to:

    • Provide financial support for college education while pursuing Army Reserve service.

    • Train well-prepared officers to strengthen the Reserve Components and enhance the total Army force.

    • Give students real-world leadership experience, professional development, and a head start in military and civilian careers

    Recipients of the scholarship not only receive financial aid for college but also develop  leadership, teamwork, and military skills while serving in the Army Reserve, preparing them for future success in both military and civilian life.

    U.S. Service Academies

    U.S. Service Academies are prestigious institutions that train future leaders of the U.S. military while providing a world-class education. Individuals may choose to join a Service Academy to receive a rigorous academic experience, develop leadership skills, and serve their country as a commissioned officer upon graduation. For more information on the military academy application process, please review the PDF attached below.

    For Students and Parents

    Alternate Graduation Pathway: Keystone State Challenge Academy

    The Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA) is a free, 22-week residential program at Fort Indiantown Gap that helps Pennsylvania youth ages 16–18 build discipline, earn academic credits or a GED, and develop the life skills needed for a successful future.

    Classes begin twice a year, in mid-January and mid-July, and provide a structured, supportive environment where cadets can grow academically, physically, and personally.

    The KSCA uses a military academy-style model to instill structure, responsibility, and self-discipline. Cadets can work toward earning a GED or recovering high school credits.

    The program is a joint effort between the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the National Guard Bureau, in consultation with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and has been transforming the lives of Pennsylvania’s youth since 2022. Students who attend KSCA have the chance to reset, refocus, and start on a path to success in school, career, and life.

    To begin the application process, interested students can start with a quick eligibility check, after which an admissions advisor will guide them through the next steps, including an orientation and final acceptance. KSCA also welcomes volunteers and mentors to support cadets as positive role models during their journey.

    For more information or to check eligibility: RA-MVPACHALLENGE@pa.gov | 717-861-7767

    Junior Reserve Officiers' Training Corps (JROTC)

    The Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) develops high school students’ leadership, citizenship, and personal responsibility while offering academic credit, scholarships, and preparation for future civilian or military leadership roles.

    Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps is a federal program sponsored by the U.S. Armed Forces. It is offered at schools nationwide and on military bases combining classroom instruction with physical training and practical leadership opportunities. 

    Pathways to Military Service

    Pennsylvania Army National Guard Recruiting 

    Pennsylvania Air National Guard Recruiting 

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