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What is Buckeye Boys State?

June 13th - 20th, 2027   |   331 days away!Miami University, Oxford, OH

The American Legion Buckeye Boys State is one of the largest Boys State programs with nearly 600 high schools, online schools, and the home-schooled community represented. Delegates are selected from across the state of Ohio and attend the summer before their senior year of high school.

Over the course of eight days, delegates will hands-on experience with the organization of political parties and the operation of the democratic form of government.

Visit the Official Buckeye Boys State Website
Three students in suits smiling at an evening assembly
Delegates begin their week by participating in elections and will vote in both a primary and general election for their peers. Once elections have concluded, the Buckeye Boys State will operate as a fully functioning government working to pass legislation, debate issues, hear court cases, and more.
The American Legion Buckeye Boys State is a non-partisan program that aims to educate young men on the rights and privileges, the duties and responsibilities, and the love for God and Country necessary to become self-governing citizens.

How to Attend Buckeye Boys State

01

Interview with a American Legion Post or Squadron

All delegates must be sponsored by a local American Legion post or squadron. We are now accepting interview recommendations for current high school juniors for the 2027 Buckeye Boys State program.

02

Attend an orientation session

If selected, all delegates must attend an orientation session. There are virtual sessions you can attend, or you could alternatively choose to attend an orientation hosted in-person at a Legion Post near you.

03

Arrive at Miami University on June 13

Once you've turned in your registration paperwork and attended an orientation, we'll see you at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio! Shared bus transportation may be able in some Ohio areas.

Why Attend Buckeye Boys State

At Buckeye Boys State, delegates will collaborate to pass legislation, debate issues, hear court cases, and more, reflecting Ohio's government at the state, county, and local levels.

Through hands-on experiences in law, media, business, and community service, Boys State citizens gain a comprehensive understanding of how government functions and how they can be active, informed leaders in their schools, communities, and careers.

A group of several students walking and talking in a group outside at Miami University