The NCAA Accelerating Academic Success Program (AASP) supports Division I limited-resource institutions in advancing student-athletes’ academic achievement and graduation. AASP grants provide targeted resources to strengthen academic support, improve Academic Progress Rate outcomes and build sustainable campus programs that help student-athletes thrive.

Who's Eligible

Single-year grants

• Division I FCS or non-football institution
• Limited-resource status (meet at least one):
  • Among the bottom 15% of Division I based on NCAA research metrics (per-capita institutional expenditures, per-capita athletics funding, per-capita Pell Grant aid)
  • Member of a conference where at least 60% of schools fall in the bottom 15% on the same metrics
• APR performance (meet at least one):
  • Two or fewer teams below a 930 APR
  • Three teams below 930 APR and no Level II or Level III penalties in the past two APR years

How to Apply

Institutional representatives submit an online application during the annual cycle.

Application packet must include:

• Completed online application in NCAA Program Hub
• Required signature/endorsement page signed by the president/chancellor and director of athletics
• Project description outlining goals, activities and expected academic outcomes (eligibility, retention, GPA)
• Budget and funding plan
• Implementation timeline and sustainability plan beyond the grant period
• Assessment plan and relevant academic performance context (e.g., APR, GSR)

Selection Criteria

• Institutional commitment: Endorsements from campus leadership; athletics oversight of implementation
• Academic impact: Clear link to improved eligibility, retention, GPA, APR and graduation outcomes
• Sustainability & assessment: Plan to sustain initiatives beyond the grant year with measurable evaluation
• Use of funds: Priority for direct student-athlete development, technology, equipment/furniture, professional development and eligible renovations

Award Details

Single-year grants

• Award amount: up to $100,000 for one year
• Nonrenewable; institutions may reapply in future cycles

Allowable uses (examples):

• Direct student-athlete development and professional development for staff and student-athletes
• Technology, tutoring, academic equipment and supplies
• Facility and learning-space needs that support academics
• Mental health, well-being and nutrition programming

Multi-year grants

• Award amount: up to $300,000 per year for three years (maximum $900,000), subject to annual renewal based on progress review
• Renewable: multi-year, contingent on annual progress and NCAA approval

Allowable uses (examples):

• Hiring academic support staff
• Developing or enhancing learning centers and academic spaces
• Launching or scaling tutoring, mentoring and study-hall programs
• Investing in technology and learning tools
• Supporting summer bridge and transition programs

Note: Comprehensive grants are offered in select cycles. When not available, institutions may apply for initiatives (single-year) grants.