¡Join our Familia!
Ascender is a year-long (Fall-Spring) free academic transfer-mentor program at ACC, dedicated to empowering students through a distinctive blend of transferable-contextualized courses in a small-class setting, personalized mentoring, and a designated advisor who will help the students navigate their first year of college. As part of the program, students have access to a variety of opportunities that support their academic, professional, and personal growth, including:
- Leadership & Mentorship Opportunities
- Cultural & Academic Events
- College Tours & Conferences
Interested in joining from Fall 2025 to Spring 2026?
Program Inclusivity
Ascender is an inclusive program open to everyone regardless of major, age, race/ethnicity, gender, etc. We are open to all types of students—including non-traditional students, parents, ESOL, veterans, etc.
Why join Ascender?
Hear from ACC students, mentors, and professors about how ASCENDER has enriched their lives!
How Ascender Works
Students who are currently enrolled or planning to enroll at ACC and have not taken the following courses are grouped into learning communities based on their educational background. These designated Ascender classes are transferable to most universities and apply to various majors. Students take these courses together during their first two semesters at one of the following campuses:
- Hays
- Highland
- Riverside
- Round Rock
- South Austin
- Online
Group 1: TSI Complete Students
Designed for TSI complete students.
Classes for Fall semester:
- ENGL 1301 (Composition 1)
- EDUC 1300 (Strategies for College Success)
Classes for Spring semester:
- ENGL 1302 (Composition 2)
- another core curriculum class
Group 2: Non-TSI Complete Students
Designed for extra reading and writing support.
Classes for Fall semester:
- INRW 0230 (Integrated Reading and Writing)
- ENGL 1301 (Composition 1) & EDUC 1300 (Strategies for College Success)
Classes for Spring semester:
- ENGL 1302 (Composition 2)
- another core curriculum class
Group 3: Adult Education Students
Designed for recent GED or ESOL graduates.
Classes for Fall semester:
- Adult Ed. College Prep INRW (Integrated Reading and Writing)
- ENGL 1301 (Composition 1) & EDUC 1300 (Strategies for College Success)
Classes for Spring semester:
- ENGL 1302 (Composition 2)
- another core curriculum class
After completing the classes above, you may continue to access Ascender benefits until you earn an associate degree from ACC and/or successfully transfer to a four-year university.
Fall 2025 Course Schedule
Ascender professors undergo year-long training through Catch the Next, where they develop teaching strategies that improve student success. Students benefit from these culturally relevant methods, which connect coursework to real-world experiences and foster a supportive, collaborative learning environment.
Check out our Fall 2025 course offerings: Coming soon.
How to Join
Ascender welcomes applications from all first-year college students. Students from all areas of study are welcome to apply. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Apply to ACC and Have Acceptance
To move forward, you must complete the ACC application, receive your acceptance, and either take the TSI Assessment or be exempt.
Step 2: Apply to ACC and Have Acceptance
Complete the Ascender’s Student Interest Form. This form does not commit you to the program; it simply allows us to connect with you and assist you through the Ascender program process.
Step 3: Connect with an Ascender Advisor
Once you meet the above requirements, we will connect you with an Ascender Advisor based on the campus you wish to attend to schedule an appointment. During your appointment, the advisor will explain the program details and discuss whether it aligns with your career and degree plan.
Step 4: Commitment and Registration
If you decide to join the program, the advisor will provide you with a virtual commitment form to sign. Only then will the advisor register you in the petitioned Ascender classes.
Questions? Email [email protected].
Not eligible?
Join AMIGOS, a student-led club open to all ACC students! Network, attend events, and get involved. Sign up for updates.
FAQs
What is expected of students in the Ascender program??
Anyone who meets the requirements and is willing to commit can join! Students must commit to a one-year program by enrolling in Ascender-designated classes (Fall & Spring) and attending at least three Ascender events per semester. Being paired with a mentor is optional.
Can I join Ascender in the Fall Semester if I already received credit for ENGL 1301 or EDUC 1300?
Unfortunately, because you’ve already completed ENGL 1301 and/or EDUC 1300, you wouldn’t qualify to enroll in Ascender. Although you can’t join the program as a student, you are welcome to join AMIGOS a student-led club at ACC. You can also look at our calendar and register to attend our public events and sessions.
Priority is given to students who were in Ascender in the Fall but if there’s space you are welcome to apply as long as you commit to attending the mandatory events.
Can I participate in Ascender while working or taking other classes?
Yes! Ascender is designed to be flexible and supportive, allowing students to participate while working or taking other classes. The program helps students balance their academic and personal responsibilities by offering smaller class sizes, personalized mentoring, and structured support. While students must enroll in Ascender-designated courses and attend at least three events per semester, they can still manage their schedules based on their needs. Many students successfully participate in Ascender while working part-time or taking additional courses.
Does participation in Ascender give me an advantage when transferring to a university?
Yes! Participating in Ascender can give you a significant advantage when transferring to a university. The program provides academic support, leadership development, and mentoring that help you build a strong foundation for success. Ascender-designated courses are transferable to most universities, and the skills you gain—such as networking, time management, and self-advocacy—make you a more competitive transfer applicant.
