The NCAA’s Accelerating Academic Success Program (AASP) is designed to support the academic achievement of student-athletes at limited-resource institutions. Through targeted funding, resources, and professional development opportunities, the program helps member schools enhance academic support services, improve graduation outcomes, and create sustainable models for long-term student success. AASP empowers institutions to invest in critical infrastructure—such as academic advising, tutoring, and career readiness programs—ensuring student-athletes receive the support they need to thrive both in the classroom and beyond. By advancing equity and academic excellence, AASP reflects the NCAA’s commitment to fostering student success.

How AASP Helps Institutions

• Elevates Campus Culture: AASP grants strengthen the overall academic environment, fostering collaboration between athletics and academics, and raising expectations for student success across departments.
• Boosts Student Development: Programs funded through AASP—like summer bridge initiatives—improve student-athlete confidence, leadership, and time-management skills right from the start.
• Drives Strategic Change: The grants act as a catalyst for long-term institutional growth, enhancing staff capacity, recruiting efforts, and campus-wide synergy.
• Builds Pride and Visibility: AASP-supported programs become a point of pride for institutions, gaining support from leadership, faculty, and the wider community.

How AASP Helps Student-Athletes

• Academic Advising: AASP-funded programs ensure student-athletes have access to dedicated advisors who understand the unique demands of balancing athletics and academics.
• Tutoring and Learning Labs: Many campuses use AASP grants to create or enhance learning spaces that provide personalized tutoring, study support, and access to academic technology.
• Degree Completion Support: From summer bridge programs to structured degree completion initiatives, AASP helps student-athletes stay on track to graduate—even when faced with eligibility or transfer challenges.
• Career Development: Through the AASP Career Development Award and campus-based programming, student-athletes explore career paths, build leadership skills, and connect with professionals in the athletics industry.