Valley Forge Military Academy (VFMA) is an esteemed private, independent, college preparatory institution dedicated to the development of young men in grades 7-12.
Established in 1928, VFMA is located on a sprawling 100-acre campus in Wayne, Pennsylvania. The Academy emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing on the intellectual, physical, and moral development of its students.
At VFMA, we instill essential values such as leadership, discipline, and respect through a structured military environment. Our rigorous academic curriculum is complemented by a wide array of extracurricular activities, including athletics, leadership training, and community service.
The Academy is committed to fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork among its cadets, preparing them for future success in higher education and beyond.
Families interested in learning more about our programs are encouraged to attend one of our Open House events or schedule a campus tour. For more information, please visit vfmacademy.org.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: 7-12, PG
- Enrollment: 150 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $49,000
- Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $22,000
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 6 / Jun. 20
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Valley Forge Military Academy ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 307 schools) for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
School Overview
Year Founded
1928
1909
Campus Size
70 acres
125 acres
School Calendar
Student Body
Enrollment
150 students
300 students
% Students of Color
41%
25%
% International Students
13%
20%
% Students Boarding
99%
70%
Offers Post-Grad Year
Yes
No
Academics and Faculty
Saturday Classes
No
No
Student-Teacher Ratio
10:1
7:1
% Faculty with Advanced Degree
90%
70%
Summer Program Offered
No
Yes
Tuition Cost
Endowment Size
$10 million
$25 million
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
(Boarding Students)
$49,000
(Does not include a one time cost for uniforms ($2500) and a one time cost for the Chromebook ($500). These costs encompass tuition and fees, room and dining, uniform fee, required personal supplies, laundry and dry-cleaning, haircuts, shoe repair, and health care. Additional Expenses: Other expenses include textbooks, personal allowance, and paid activities, such as SCUBA training, Judo, driver’s education, or membership in artillery battery (E Battery). A fee is charged for Health Center care that lasts more than 24 hours and requires a medical management plan. *These are one-time fees, only due during a cadet’s first year enrolled at VFMA. A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 (domestic) and $1,500 (international) is also included in this tuition and must be paid to reserve a cadet’s spot at the Academy. **All International tuition must be paid in full before reporting to campus. A $695 Medical Management Fee will be assessed to any cadet prescribed medications that are taken on a regular basis.)
(Does not include a one time cost for uniforms ($2500) and a one time cost for the Chromebook ($500). These costs encompass tuition and fees, room and dining, uniform fee, required personal supplies, laundry and dry-cleaning, haircuts, shoe repair, and health care. Additional Expenses: Other expenses include textbooks, personal allowance, and paid activities, such as SCUBA training, Judo, driver’s education, or membership in artillery battery (E Battery). A fee is charged for Health Center care that lasts more than 24 hours and requires a medical management plan. *These are one-time fees, only due during a cadet’s first year enrolled at VFMA. A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 (domestic) and $1,500 (international) is also included in this tuition and must be paid to reserve a cadet’s spot at the Academy. **All International tuition must be paid in full before reporting to campus. A $695 Medical Management Fee will be assessed to any cadet prescribed medications that are taken on a regular basis.)
$59,900
Yearly Tuition
(Day Students)
(Day Students)
$22,000
(Does not include a one time cost for uniforms ($2500) and a one time cost for the Chromebook ($500). These costs encompass tuition and fees, room and dining, uniform fee, required personal supplies, laundry and dry-cleaning, haircuts, shoe repair, and health care. Additional Expenses: Other expenses include textbooks, personal allowance, and paid activities, such as SCUBA training, Judo, driver’s education, or membership in artillery battery (E Battery). A fee is charged for Health Center care that lasts more than 24 hours and requires a medical management plan. *These are one-time fees, only due during a cadet’s first year enrolled at VFMA. A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 (domestic) and $1,500 (international) is also included in this tuition and must be paid to reserve a cadet’s spot at the Academy. **All International tuition must be paid in full before reporting to campus. A $695 Medical Management Fee will be assessed to any cadet prescribed medications that are taken on a regular basis.)
(Does not include a one time cost for uniforms ($2500) and a one time cost for the Chromebook ($500). These costs encompass tuition and fees, room and dining, uniform fee, required personal supplies, laundry and dry-cleaning, haircuts, shoe repair, and health care. Additional Expenses: Other expenses include textbooks, personal allowance, and paid activities, such as SCUBA training, Judo, driver’s education, or membership in artillery battery (E Battery). A fee is charged for Health Center care that lasts more than 24 hours and requires a medical management plan. *These are one-time fees, only due during a cadet’s first year enrolled at VFMA. A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 (domestic) and $1,500 (international) is also included in this tuition and must be paid to reserve a cadet’s spot at the Academy. **All International tuition must be paid in full before reporting to campus. A $695 Medical Management Fee will be assessed to any cadet prescribed medications that are taken on a regular basis.)
$33,500
Tuition international students
$59,000
$53,975
Admissions
Application Deadline
Jan. 6 / Jun. 20
Jan. 15
Acceptance Rate
78%
58%
Director of Admissions
Caroline Cristini
Application URL
Sports
# Interscholastic Sports Offered
12
16
Extracurriculars
Total Extracurricular Organizations
11
23
Extracurriculars
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Admission AmbassadorBoy Scouts
Community Service ClubGo Green Club
Ka Makani FlyersMarine Expeditions
Arts and Music Programs:
ChoirField Sports
Herald TrumpetsMake a Wish Foundation of HPA
College Matriculation
College Acceptance Rate
100%
10 Most Popular College Choices (# Enrolled)
Penn State University
24
University of California System
13
Indiana University
10
Valley Forge Military College
8
Norwich University
5
Syracuse University
3
U.S. Military Academy (West Point)
3
U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis)
3
The Citadel
2
U.S. Air Force Academy
1
School Notes
- Valley Forge Military Academy (VFMA), founded in 1928, is a prestigious independent college preparatory institution located in Wayne, Pennsylvania, set on a picturesque 100-acre campus.
- Catering to boys in grades 7-12, VFMA combines rigorous academics with a structured military environment, fostering the holistic development of its cadets.
- Academic Excellence:
- VFMA offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to challenge students academically while preparing them for future college success. The Academy emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and personal responsibility, with small class sizes that allow for individualized attention and mentorship. Core subjects include mathematics, science, humanities, and foreign languages, complemented by dual enrollment opportunities and a variety of electives that cater to diverse interests.
- Leadership and Character Development:
- At the heart of VFMA's mission is the commitment to developing young men of character and integrity. The military structure instills discipline and respect, teaching students the value of teamwork and leadership through various training programs and activities. Cadets participate in leadership courses, drills, and community service projects, all aimed at nurturing responsible citizenship.
- Extracurricular Activities:
- VFMA offers a robust selection of extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and organizations that promote personal growth and camaraderie. Students can participate in sports such as football, basketball, and soccer, as well as engage in fine arts, STEM clubs, and various student-led initiatives. The Academy encourages students to pursue their passions beyond the classroom, enhancing their overall educational experience.
- Community and Values:
- Valley Forge Military Academy prides itself on its strong sense of community, where students build lasting friendships and develop a supportive network. The Academy emphasizes core values such as honor, loyalty, and commitment, which are integral to the cadet experience. Through mentorship from faculty and staff, students are guided not only in their academic pursuits but also in their personal growth.
- Open Houses and Tours:
- Prospective families are invited to attend Open House events or schedule campus tours to learn more about VFMA's programs and culture. These opportunities provide an in-depth look at the Academy's offerings and allow families to engage with faculty, staff, and current cadets.
- For more information about Valley Forge Military Academy and its programs, please visit vfmacademy.org.
- Valley Forge Military Academy accreditations: National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States (AMCSUS)
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- General H. Norman Schwarzkopf '52 - Commander, Operation Desert Storm
- J.D. Salinger - Author, Catcher in the Rye
- Wes Moore - Governor of Maryland, Rhodes Scholar & White House Fellow
- Larry Fitzgerald - Former NFL Wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals
- LTG H.R. McMaster - Former National Security Advisor to the President Trump
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Valley Forge Military Academy cost?
Valley Forge Military Academy's tuition is approximately $49,000 for boarding students and $22,000 for day students.
What is the acceptance rate of Valley Forge Military Academy?
The acceptance rate of Valley Forge Military Academy is 78%, which is higher than the boarding school average of 58%.
Who are famous alumni from Valley Forge Military Academy?
Valley Forge Military Academy famous alumni include: General H. Norman Schwarzkopf '52, J.D. Salinger, Wes Moore, Larry Fitzgerald and LTG H.R. McMaster.
What sports does Valley Forge Military Academy offer?
Valley Forge Military Academy offers 12 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Equestrian, Football, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field and Wrestling.
What is Valley Forge Military Academy's ranking?
Valley Forge Military Academy ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for High percentage of students on financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Valley Forge Military Academy?
The application deadline for Valley Forge Military Academy is Jan. 6 / Jun. 20.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
This school is not like any other school out there. I've attended a top public school and a top boarding school and valley forge is a completely different experience. when I was applying to valley. . .
Valley Forge Military Academy is the premiere educator of character education in America today. Valley Forge's honor code and military environment teach and foster doing the right things in life when choices have to be. . .
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