NCAA awards over $1.6 million in AASP scholarships to 17 Division I universities

The NCAA awarded more than $1.6 million to 17 Division I universities through the Accelerating Academic Success Program (AASP) for the 2026-27 academic year. This initiative aims to strengthen the academic performance and progression towards graduation of student-athletes in historically under-resourced institutions.

Winners and expansion of the NCAA AASP program

The 2026-27 cycle marks the distribution of AASP scholarships to 17 centers, including Alabama A&M, Austin Peay, Chicago State, Cleveland State, Coppin State, East Texas A&M, Indiana State, Jackson State, Long Beach State, Morgan State, Mississippi Valley, Northwestern State, Tennessee State, University of the Incarnate Word, University of South Carolina Upstate, UT Martin, and Winthrop. Four of these institutions —Chicago State, East Texas A&M, University of the Incarnate Word, and Winthrop— are first-time beneficiaries. This reflects the program's emphasis on expanding coverage and addressing new needs within the NCAA membership in the academic and athletic industry.

Objectives and mechanisms of NCAA academic scholarships

The AASP has been operating since 2012 with the goal of supporting Division I universities with fewer resources, providing them with specific resources to enhance academic support, raise Academic Progress Rates (APR), and develop programs that favor the successful graduation of student-athletes. Common uses of the funds include:

• Hiring specialized graduate assistants
• Strengthening tutoring and mentoring programs
• Upgrading educational technology tools

According to Senior Vice President Felicia Martin, each selected university detailed projects aimed at providing a "holistic and positive" student experience. The NCAA aims for the services supported by AASP to complement the educational experience and reinforce the academic success of its athletes.

"It is an honor to congratulate each of the 17 universities that received an AASP scholarship for one year for 2026-2027. Each application aimed to holistically improve the student-athlete experience." — Felicia Martin, Senior Vice President of the NCAA

Demand growth and results of the Accelerating Academic Success Program

In 2026-27, the NCAA received a record 31 applications for AASP scholarships, tripling the number of requests since 2023. More than 300 scholarships have already been granted to affiliates since the inception of the program. Institutions can apply for funding for one or multiple years, depending on the nature of their projects and needs. The NCAA encourages universities that are not selected to continue submitting their applications in subsequent years.

The program is a collaboration of the NCAA's division of inclusion, education, and community engagement with Division I, which strengthens institutional connections and allows for the creation of advisory forums, continuous access to online educational resources, and events such as the NCAA Career Forum, where selected athletes explore career opportunities in the sports sector.

Impact for athletes and professional development

The support of the AASP goes beyond graduation: outstanding students, such as Robert Salhab III from Jackson State, are recognized at national forums. Athletes interested in the sports industry are invited to participate in networking opportunities and exposure to NCAA programs to facilitate job transitions.

How to participate and schedule

Applications for AASP funding open in February and close in May each year, allowing institutions to plan and present clear academic support strategies. The NCAA maintains direct contact with universities throughout the academic cycle and promotes continuous improvement in supporting the student-athlete. Additional resources and details are available on the NCAA website or through events and news forums of the organization.