Valley Forge Military Academy to Close Following 2025-2026 Academic Year

The Board of Trustees of Valley Forge Military Academy (VFMA) today announced that the Academy will close following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 academic year. VFMA will continue to operate through May 30, 2026, culminating in the graduation of the 98th Corps of Cadets.

Leadership at Valley Forge Military Academy also indicated that their decision has no impact on the separately governed and accredited Valley Forge Military College, which is a distinct institution. Each entity, despite sharing a campus, has its own independent board of trustees, leadership, and operations.

After a thorough review of VFMA’s long-term sustainability, the trustees determined that the Academy is no longer viable for several reasons. First, rising costs have made a boarding school education less affordable for many families. In turn, this has driven sharp declines in enrollment. In addition, changes in Pennsylvania law increased the Academy’s liability exposure, driving steep insurance premium increases and narrowing the number of insurers willing to provide coverage. Together, these factors made the Academy’s future unsustainable.

“For nearly 100 years, we have maintained a strong tradition of developing resilient young men of character,” said Gray Beck, Board Chairman, Valley Forge Military Academy. “Despite today’s announcement the legacy of Valley Forge Military Academy will live on in the thousands of graduates, faculty and staff members, and supporters.”

Over the course of the 2025-2026 academic year, VFMA’s top priority will be cadets’ academic progress and working with their families to ensure a smooth transition process. In addition, transition support will also be provided to VFMA faculty and staff. The goal is to have as vigorous an academic year as possible, including academics, extracurriculars, and support services.

“We are indebted to the faculty, staff, cadets, and alumni who make Valley Forge Military Academy an incredibly special place,” Beck said. “The best thing we can do now is to continue and provide as normal an experience as possible this year for the young men we’ve been entrusted to help develop into the leaders of tomorrow.”

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Q: Why is VFMA closing?
A: After careful consideration, the Board of Trustees has determined that VFMA cannot continue beyond this academic year. Shifting enrollment patterns and rising costs have made it difficult to sustain the program. This was a very difficult decision made only after reviewing every possible option.

Q: When will VFMA officially close?
A: VFMA will complete the current academic year. Commencement will take place as scheduled on Saturday, May 30, 2026. 

Q: Does this affect Valley Forge Military College (VFMC)?
A: No. VFMC remains strong and will continue as the Military College of Pennsylvania. The College is expanding programs and partnerships to serve future cadets.

For Families & Students

Q: What happens to my cadet after this year?
A: Our Academy staff will personally support each family in finding the right next step. We will be working with local schools and partner institutions to provide transition options.

Q: Will seniors still graduate with a VFMA diploma?
A: Yes. All seniors who complete the academic year will graduate with a VFMA diploma.

Q: Will tuition and fees be refunded?
A: No. Tuition covers instruction and services for this academic year. 

Q: Will VFMA Cadets have auto acceptance into VFMC?
A: Yes. All current students (7th-12th), who meet admission standards will receive automatic acceptance into Valley Forge Military College. Their Cadet status will be honored, and they will not have to participate in the plebe system.  

For Alumni 

Q: What happens to VFMA traditions and history?
A: VFMA’s proud history and traditions will always remain part of the Valley Forge story. Alumni events, recognition, and communications will continue through VFMC.

Q: How can alumni stay engaged?
A: Alumni will remain a valued part of our community. We will continue to host alumni events, publish updates, and ensure VFMA’s legacy is honored.

Looking Forward

Q: What is the future of Valley Forge?
A: Valley Forge Military College remains strong and is expanding its academic programs, with growing transfer agreements, academic programs, and leadership development opportunities. By focusing on the College, we ensure that the mission of developing citizen leaders remains strong for generations to come.