American Legion Boys Nation
"A Week that Shapes a Lifetime"
Since 1935, American Legion Boys State and Boys Nation have offered top high school juniors a unique, hands-on experience in how government works. At Boys State, students run mock governments and engage in civic leadership.
Two delegates from each Boys State program are selected for Boys Nation in Washington, D.C., where they serve as U.S. senators in a week of mock sessions, party conventions, and national landmark visits. Many alumni go on to careers in public service or politics.
2025 Boys Nation Resources
The 79th Session of American Legion Boys Nation takes place July 18-26, 2025. The links below will contain information as it becomes available during and after the session takes place.
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Agenda & Legislation
Review the Boys Nation agenda and legislation submitted by Boys Nation Senators.Learn More -
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How to Participate
Boys State and Boys Nation are designed for students who show leadership, character, academic excellence, and a commitment to their school and community. High school students who haven’t attended the program before are eligible to apply for Boys State, and must participate in Boys State to be eligible for Boys Nation. Selection is based on merit and may vary slightly from state to state.
All programs follow federal disability guidelines, and most require a consent form signed by a parent or guardian and a licensed physician.
In most cases, schools recommend students to their local American Legion post, which then interviews and selects the delegates who will attend.
Contact Your State to Learn More
Prominent Alumni
"A week that shapes a lifetime" are the simple, yet powerful, words that illustrate the significant value of The American Legion Boys State and Boys Nation programs.
For the past 78 years, these six words have positively affected the lives of more than a million high school boys, including famous alumni Tom Brokaw, Bill Clinton, Neil Armstrong, Michael Jordan and many more.
Boys Nation Yearbooks
Browse digital versions of Boys Nation Yearbooks from previous sessions and learn more about the events, party platforms and issues, and voting results for each year.