Our Program

What Is Badger Boys State?

A program to change a lifetime, Badger Boys State educates young leaders on how to become more impactful community members of Wisconsin. During the program, high school students between their junior and senior years learn how our government system works by creating their own city, county, and state level governments. Over 850 participants leave feeling inspired by the lifelong lessons and relationships developed at Badger Boys State.

Who Is Eligible to Attend Badger Boys State?

To participate at Badger Boys State, students must: (1) be entering their senior year of high school next fall and (2) be from a Wisconsin high school or be home-schooled within the state.

We encourage students of all backgrounds to attend Badger Boys State.

Badger Boys State does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, handicap, creed, color, political affiliation, ancestry, or membership in the National Guard, state defense force, or any other reserve component of the military forces of the United States or Wisconsin.

How Are Students Selected and Sponsored?

School administration, school counselors, and/or the social studies department are often involved in determining which students should attend Badger Boys State. All 850 participants who attend Badger Boys State are 100% funded by donations. We greatly appreciate the generosity of all our sponsors, who help make our program successful year after year.

What Benefits can Attendees Expect?

Badger Boys State prides itself on identifying, creating, and empowering the leaders of tomorrow, not just during the week of the program, but afterwards as well. Boys State is a fantastic experience in leadership, collaboration, and communication with students from around the state, creating a huge network of boys and men with shared experiences and fond memories who make up our Badger Boy State Alumni Association. In addition, many colleges and organizations offer scholarships to Boys State Alumni, with some of them being listed below: