HOW TO GET TO BOYS STATE


RIDE THE BUS:

The ND American Legion provides busing to and from NDBS from all over the state for minimal cost (Typically this cost is covered by your sponsoring post). See the Bus Schedule with dates, times, and pickup/drop off locations.

TRAVEL WITH A PARENT OR GUARDIAN:

Mom, dad, grandparents, etc. can bring you to the campus of NDSCS for registration and pick you up upon completion of the week. More information regarding locations and times will be included in your registration packet – including information regarding Parent’s Day.

DRIVE, OR COME WITH FRIENDS:

If you would prefer to drive to Wahpeton or carpool with others that are coming that is fine as well. Using your vehicle throughout the week of Boys State, though, is prohibited. NDSCS parking lots are well lit and secured by campus police, so there is no need to worry about the safety of your vehicle.

HOW MUCH DOES BOYS STATE COST?


  • The fee for North Dakota American Legion Boys State is $300.  This fee is usually paid by the local Legion Post or through donations from local businesses or other organizations. The fee covers the full week of Boys State including meals, lodging, textbooks, notebooks, athletic activities and other necessities. This fee does not include transportation.

  • Delegates must purchase 1 tee shirt at a $15.00 cost, some boys like to purchase additional tee shirts but this is optional.

  • They will need $10.00 for a room key deposit. This money is refunded during checkout upon return of the room key.

  • Delegates are advised NOT to bring large amounts of money. The only money needed in addition to the above fees is a small amount of spending money for soda and snacks.​

WHO COVERS THIS COST?
A delegate may be financially sponsored by anyone. Most American Legion posts pay for some delegates, but local businesses and fraternal organizations may also provide the registration fee.  All registrations are processed through the American Legion post in the area.  Should you need help with your application, contact Teri at programs@ndlegion.org and she will help you get your application completed.

DONATIONS WELCOME:
The $300.00 fee does not represent the full cost associated with a boy attending Boys State. The fee is kept artificially low to encourage a large number of boys to be able to attend this most worthwhile program.  Donations from individuals and groups are needed to make up the difference.  Donations may be mailed to North Dakota Boys State, PO Box 5057, West Fargo, ND 58078-5057. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated.

TRUST FUND | NORTH DAKOTA AMERICAN LEGION FOUNDATION:
Within the North Dakota American Legion Foundation an account has been set up for the benefit of the Boys State program. All Memorial donations are recognized and appreciated. There are also provisions for you to include Boys State (or any other American Legion program) in your Will. Information on the North Dakota American Legion Foundation may be obtained by contacting the Adjutant, ND American Legion Foundation Secretary.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


  • Students who apply for ND Boys State prior to the priority deadline (typically the last Friday of April) are eligible for one of three scholarships sponsored by North Dakota Boys State Inc. At the end the week, the three scholarships ($250, $150, and $100) are presented to three randomly selected recipients. Scholarships are awarded for the student’s first fall semester. Scholarships only eligible at North Dakota colleges and universities.

  • Samsung American Legion Scholarship: The Samsung corporation awards numerous scholarships to students who attend Boys and Girls state. For information regarding eligibility and application information, please visit http://www.legion.org/scholarships/samsung. Deadline for submission is arrival at ND Boys State registration.

HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT


The ND Department of Public Instruction has approved ND Boys State for high school credit. Upon completion of the week, students are given information they can return to their local high school for administration by the school district. While the DPI has approved ND Boys State for .25 or .5 credit hours, actual application of credit is determined by the local school district and not at the discretion of the DPI or ND Boys State.