Female high school students who have completed their junior year are competitively selected and sponsored by American Legion Auxiliary units for the Girls State program, where they learn about the political process by electing officials for all levels of state government and actively running a mock government. The participants are assigned to mock cities and either the “Federalist Party” or “Nationalist Party.”
Assistance from dedicated ALA volunteers ensures the program’s nonpartisan governmental, patriotic, and civic objectives are carried out through interactive learning. Though the week is filled with many learning opportunities, there is always time for fun and the formation of long-term friendships.
Candidates should be keenly interested in government and current events, and show strong leadership abilities. Because the structure of state and local government varies, ALA Girls State programs may vary in content and method of procedure, but each adheres to the same basic core values.
Find the list of Girls State locations, dates, and application information here.
Location(s)
- The American Legion Auxiliary in each state holds its own Girls State program. See the full list here.
Schedule
- Dates vary by state, but the program is typically held for one week in May or June.
Cost/Compensation
- The costs of ALA Girls State programs are underwritten by each state-level American Legion Auxiliary. ALA Girls State delegates’ registration fees are paid for by the sponsoring local American Legion Auxiliary unit with additional support and funding sometimes coming from various civic and nonprofit organizations. Participating young women may incur nominal expenses for transportation, site-specific fees, or contribution to an optional service project.
Eligibility Requirements
- Female high school juniors who have demonstrated leadership qualities and an interest in government and current events.
Deadline
- Deadlines vary by state. Please see the full list of ALA Girls State programs here.
Application or Entry Requirements
- American Legion Auxiliary units work with local high school educators to identify girls who have demonstrated leadership qualities. Eligible female students are then recommended and selected by sponsoring American Legion Auxiliary units. Each ALA Girls State program and/or ALA unit determines the process they will use to select the delegates for their state. The number of ALA Girls State citizens varies by state and is determined by each state’s American Legion Auxiliary resources.
- Female high school juniors interested in applying to attend ALA Girls State are encouraged to contact either their school counselor, their local American Legion Auxiliary unit or visit your ALA Girls State programs website regarding the application process and deadline.
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
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The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1919 to support The American Legion and advocate for veterans, military families, and patriotic youth programs. As one of the nation’s largest women’s patriotic service organizations, the ALA engages in volunteer service, scholarships, and legislative advocacy to promote patriotism, education, and community service. Membership is open to women with direct familial ties to U.S. military veterans, and the organization operates at local, state, and national levels.
