Accelerate Student Achievement Program

What is ASAP?

The Accelerate Student Achievement Program (ASAP) is hosted on the University of Arkansas campus in Fayetteville during the August intersession. After the summer session, ASAP provides ongoing support throughout the academic year. ASAP Scholars are awarded a $4,000 scholarship each year, split into two $2,000 payments per semester, contingent upon their continued enrollment and participation in student success programming.

What is a Summer Bridge Program?

The Summer Bridge Program helps incoming students get ready for college life by providing academic support, campus resources, and a supportive community. This program usually takes place over a few weeks during the summer and includes workshops, classes, and mentorship opportunities. These activities help students build the skills and confidence they need to excel their first year. Participants learn about university expectations, build connections with other students and faculty, and lay a solid foundation for their academic journey.

Who is eligible to participate?

  • Current High School Seniors
  • Residents in one of the following counties in Arkansas: Arkansas, Ashley, Chicot, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Desha, Drew, Greene, Independence, Jackson, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lee, Lincoln, Lonoke, Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett, Prairie, Randolph, St. Francis, White, or Woodruff
  • Admitted to the University of Arkansas for the academic year immediately following high school graduation
  • First-generation college students and/or students who qualify to receive a Pell Grant (as determined by completing the FAFSA). Priority will be given to students who meet both of these qualifications.
  • "First-generation college student" is defined as those who will be the first in their immediate family to graduate from a four-year college or university
  • Committed to attending the University of Arkansas and living in the designated residence hall throughout both the bridge program and their freshman year

Time Commitment

 
 

Early December

The ASAP Application Opens

 

February 1

ASAP Application Priority Deadline

 

February 26

ASAP Decision Release

 

March

Housing Phase 1 Deadline for ASAP Scholars

 

April

Housing Room Selection for ASAP Scholars

 

Late May - June

Attend 2-Day Orientation Session

 

July 28

ASAP Move-in Day

 

July 28 - August 8

ASAP Bridge Program

 

August 19

First Day of Fall Semester

How to Apply

Students who meet the eligibility requirements listed above will be invited to apply for ASAP. Eligible students will receive an email invitation with detailed application instructions during their senior year of high school.

I think I am eligible for ASAP, but I have not received an invitation to apply. What should I do?

Students who believe they may be eligible to apply for ASAP should contact us at asap@uark.edu or by phone at 479-575-4789.

 

Contact Information

ASAP Contact

Don Todd NixDon Nix
ASAP Program Director

Email: nix@uark.edu 

ASAP Contact

Megan GarlandMegan Garland 
Associate Director of Arkansas Recruitment

Email: megang@uark.edu 

For More Information

Dr. Trevor Francis

Director of Student Success and Associate Vice Provost 
tafrancis@uark.edu

Dr. Leslie Yingling

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Success and Multicultural Initiatives / Associate Dean of Students
lyinglin@uark.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

New Student Orientation

All ASAP Scholars should have attended a May or June New Student Orientation session and participated in academic advising. Please notify a member of the ASAP Team immediately if you were unable to attend your session. Orientation resources are available at orientation.uark.edu/resources.

When will I move in for the summer?

All ASAP Scholars will move into their residence hall the afternoon of Sunday, July 28. You may select your specific arrival time in the University Housing Portal. Please contact admissions staff at asap@uark.edu immediately if you are not able to move in on this date.

What class will I be taking during ASAP?

All ASAP participants will be enrolled in a two-hour course designed for the ASAP cohort. This class will meet every weekday beginning Monday, July 29 and ending Thursday, August 8. Students will also be expected to participate in bridge program activities on Saturday, August 3, and on Sunday, August 4. Please plan accordingly now to be present for all program activity dates, and contact ASAP program staff with any questions you may have about these expectations.