Dear 2026 American Legion Jersey Boys State Delegates:
On behalf of the American Legion Department of New Jersey, the officers, trustees, and staff of American Legion Jersey Boys State, Program co-sponsors, and your school educators and administrators, congratulations on being selected to attend the 2026 American Legion Jersey Boys State (“ALJBS”) Program.
ALJBS is one of the best and most prestigious youth programs in the United States today. Sponsored by the American Legion Department of New Jersey, we have an exciting session planned for you with many new and exciting activities and speakers.
As a delegate, you will have the opportunity to govern and interact with some of the top high school juniors from across the State of New Jersey and run your own mythical 51st state. You will have a unique opportunity to not only learn about but try to find solutions to the real life problems facing our municipalities, counties and the state as a whole. You will also hear how your real life counterparts are dealing with those same issues in their jobs as councilmen, mayors, county commissioners, county executives, assemblymen, senators, and governor.
Please find a few answers below to frequently asked questions:
When should I arrive to Rider University’s campus?
Please arrive at 7:30 AM on Sunday, June 21.
When will I receive my “Permit to Check In” / check-in instructions?
You will receive this via email on Saturday, June 20.
Can I order more t-shirts?
At this time, online pre-ordering has been closed to allow our team to fulfill all orders. You can purchase additional shirts in-person upon check-in on Sunday morning. Shirts (and many more items) are also available for sale during all meal periods at the ALJBS Store, which is attached to the dining hall. We accept cash, card, checks, and mobile payment methods.
Where can I find information on the college credit program?
Please see our College Credit page.
I missed an orientation. What should I do?
A recording of our virtual orientation is available here – please watch the recording before you arrive on Sunday. Physically attending an in-person orientation or the live virtual orientation is not a requirement to attend, viewing the recording will suffice.
What should I pack?
Please find a packing list here!
Do you have a mobile app?
Yes! You can visit app.aljbs.org to access it. Additional details, including login instructions, will be provided to you at a later date. While highly encouraged, access to the app is not a requirement of attendance.
Where can I find more information about the Family Day picnic?
Please see our Family Day page! Please note that tickets are only required for the picnic lunch – you do not need to purchase tickets if you will not be eating at the lunch.
What else should I do to prepare for the session?
Please review the pre-session reading assignments.
I am unsure of my registration status, or have another issue (including medical or physical related issues, permission slips, etc.).
We encourage you to arrive at Rider University’s campus at the standard check-in time (7:30AM), and ask for the special situations desk. We will resolve the issue then!
I have another question.
Please contact us by email admissions@aljbs.org.
We are often asked by future delegates how to best prepare for the upcoming session. First and foremost, be prepared to get involved in the program the minute you arrive. ALJBS is a fast-paced program that covers a lot of ground in a short period of time. If you do not get involved from the start, you will wish you had. Many offices and appointments are decided in the first couple of days of the program. Second, read your local newspaper to familiarize yourself with the types of issues that you will face at ALJBS. Third, get plenty of rest immediately preceding ALJBS. As previously mentioned, ALJBS is a fast paced program that keeps you busy all day late into the night. If you come to the program tired, you may have problems keeping up with your fellow delegates.
Once again, congratulations on being selected to American Legion Jersey Boys State. We look forward to an exciting session and seeing you at Rider University on Sunday, June 21st at 7:30 am. We know you will do your parents, school and sponsors proud.
If you have any other questions, please contact admissions@aljbs.org.