Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there an age limit?
• Are there any exceptions to the age limit?
• How long is the program?
• How much does it cost?
• Is there visitation?
• How do I apply?
• How do I get to the Thunderbird campus?
• Do I need to bring anything to my interview?
• My child is on probation, can they still attend?
• Can I SEND my child to your program?
• Does TYA have summer programs for younger children?
• Can I use tobacco while at TYA?
• Is job training offered at TYA?
• Do I need to live in Oklahoma to attend?

Is there an age limit?
YES.  Applicants must be 16 - 18 years of age. 

Are there any exceptions to the age limit?
NO.                               
 
How long is the program?
17 1/2 Months total - 22 week (5 1/2 months) Residential Phase followed by the at home 12 month Post-Residential follow up program with a mentor after graduation.

How much does it cost?
This is a FREE program.                                      back to top

Is there visitation?
NO.  There are some mandatory weekend passes where cadets are checked out by parent(s)/guardian(s) for the weekend. However, cadets are allowed to receive mail and we encourage frequent, positive mail from family and friends.

How do I apply?
All youth applying for the next class will need to contact a Recruiter at the Academy to request an application, fill out an online application or download an application fill it out completely and then submit it to TYA. Once your completed application is received, someone will contact you to set up an interview.     back to top

How do I get to the Thunderbird campus?  There is a link to get Google Map driving directions to Thunderbird on the Directions page under How to Apply.

Do I need to bring anything to the interview?
When attending an interview the applicant must be accompanied by one parent/legal guardian. The applicant will need to bring all application originals if their application was faxed.  Also,  if the applicant is still missing any paperwork it must be brought with them. Bring originals or photocopies of the following items: Birth Certificate, Social Security Card, Insurance card, CDIB ( if applicable).                     back to top

My child is on probation, can they still attend?
Qualified applicants cannot be on probation for other than juvenile offenses or have pending court dates or charges against them. You may be able to work an arrangement out with the D.A., Judge, or Parole Officer. They are familiar with our program, but that is strictly between you and the court system.  Please contact the RPM Manager for clarification.

Can I SEND my child to your program?
That depends, do they want to attend? TYA is a voluntary program and the youth must be willing to attend. Cadets have the ability to request to leave throughout the cycle.  back to top

Does TYA have summer programs for younger children?
NO.

Can I use tobacco while at TYA?
NO.  The program is tobacco, drug & alcohol free.  back to top

Is job training offered at TYA?
Students who obtain their GED early have the opportunity to take up to 6 hours of classes at OSU Institute of Technology.   Some students may qualify to take part in a Job-Shadowing Program, observing and participating in different career fields to gather ideas for future employment.

Do I need to live in Oklahoma?
YES.  To attend, you must be a legal resident of the U.S.A. and reside in Oklahoma.                                        back to top