Frequently Asked Questions

What sets MMA apart from other schools?
What is the annual tuition for a new student for an academic year?
Are there payment plan options?
Are loans available?
Can a student enroll any time?
Why do most young men attend MMA?
Is drivers education available?
How will attending a "military" school be different for my son?
How 'strict' or 'tough' is MMA?
What if my son is reluctant to attend military school?
What are the admission requirements?
What is the student-teacher ratio?
What is a typical day like?
What happens to students after graduation?

The Marine Military Academy is the only private school in the world based on the traditions, values and ideals of the United States Marine Corps. Although academics are the backbone of any educational organization, leadership is the muscle at MMA. Cadets learn through a structured, traditional military school environment including self-discipline, teamwork, motivation, how to follow, and how to lead.

The cost for a new student for the can be found on the tuition and fees page. Tuition must be re-evaluated each academic year in an effort to maintain the high standards we demand for the Cadets with constant vigilance to provide an affordable quality education.

To inquire about payment plan options please contact the business office at (956) 423-6006 ext 240

Loan programs make tuition payments more affordable by providing up-front funds to the Academy but let families spread the payments over a longer period of time than our tuition payment plans allow. If you are interested in any of the providers listed here, please contact them directly for current fees, rates and other details. Most, if not all, are credit-based loans and may have different standards of creditworthiness.

Marine Military Academy accepts new students only at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. Applications are accepted at any time, but once accepted, students must report on registration day at either the beginning of the school year in August or at Mid-term in January.

The Corps of Cadets at MMA is comprised of young men from different cultural, economic, social, and academic backgrounds. Some young men come to MMA with aspirations to one day attend a prestigious university or service academy, others come because they especially enjoy a structured, military environment. Others attend MMA because of the parents' determination to give their sons the best possible opportunities for a successful future. MMA is not for everyone. It is not an alternative for juvenile detention or students who are involved with juvenile authorities. It is a structured, disciplined, and motivating environment where the staff expects the best effort from every Cadet. Perhaps instead of "why do most young men attend MMA" a better question might be "What kind of person leaves MMA?"

People do not know what they are capable of doing until they are stretched--mentally, physically and academically. At MMA we believe each young man's reach should exceed his grasp. Just as in all other areas of life, there are rules that must be enforced, there are people who deserve respect, there are responsibilities that must be met, and there are tests that must be taken. Each Cadet is held responsible for his actions and choices. At times those choices are met with swift and stern repercussions. For example, there is a no tolerance policy with drugs, alcohol or violence. However, justice must always be tempered with mercy and each Cadet is not stretched beyond his capabilities to successfully complete whatever he might be asked to do.

Some of our unique electives include:
Aerospace I and II -- a two year program where a Cadet can earn a private pilot's license
Marine Science -- Cadets learn about sailing, the sea, navigation by the stars, and the scientific and historic principles of the nautical world

MMA does not offer a special education or modified curriculum for students with learning differences.

Marine Military Academy is a challenging, traditional military school. Although the setting is structured and rules are enforced, the goal is to prepare young men for college. The environment is geared toward developing the 'whole man' - academically, mentally, spiritually, and physically. The goals are attainable and age-appropriate but we expect the best from our Cadets - and we usually get it!

Any time a change is anticipated in anyone's life, there is hesitancy and trepidation. Parents who have had children go off to college or military service can relate similar experiences. It is normal and natural for children to express concern. However the vast majority of parents of present Cadets and graduates attest to the fact that coming to MMA turned out to be the best decision they ever made.

To determine if a young man is a candidate for admission we evaluate transcripts, teacher evaluations, standardized test score results, medical history and of course, the application. We are looking for a young man who has the potential to be successful at MMA. We do not have a minimum grade point average for admission. Many boys who had poor grades in the past develop better study habits and improve their GPA when placed in a more structured setting.

On average 14:1. However, depending on enrollment and scheduling classes can be larger or smaller.

Cadets at MMA pack plenty of day into their hours. After waking up at 6:00 a.m., they have a short wake up physical fitness period. The breakfast is referred to as "first mess" and provides not only a nutritious but delicious start to the day. After breakfast, the Cadets shower and get ready for their academic day. There is morning military formation, inspection colors ceremony and announcements before the Cadets go off to six 45-minute classes. Second mess or the lunch meal is around the noon hour. Following classes is a tutorial period which is mandatory if a Cadet's grade falls below 70% in that subject. There are four morning classes and two afternoon classes. All Cadets participate in sports and activities until dinner at 6:00 p.m. After dinner, Cadets have a mandatory study session from 7:00 until 9:30 p.m. At 10:00 pm. light are out. Keeping the Cadets' minds and bodies occupied has proven to be an essential element in developing a positive self image and a success oriented lifestyle.

Typically, 94-98% of our graduating seniors will attend the college or university of their choice. MMA graduates attend colleges like Stanford, MIT, Purdue, Princeton, Embry Riddle Aeronautics University, Southern Methodist University, Tulane, The Citadel, Virginia Military Institute, Duke, Texas A&M, University of Texas - Austin, Virginia Tech, Brown, Hampden-Sidney, DePauw, and Washington & Lee. All four of the US Service Academies are also represented. Some may join a branch of military service, go to work for the family business or postpone college for a year or two.

Drivers' Education classes are offered during the spring semester at the Marine Military Academy. Any questions regarding eligibility, availability, and/or costs should be directed to the academic department at 956-421-9212.