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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
Classes for Fall semester:
Cohort #1: Monday/Wednesday @ RRC (Students must take both)
ENGL-1301-028 - 12:00pm-1:00pm
EDUC-1300-158 - 1:30pm-2:50pm
Cohort #2: Tuesday/Thursday @ RRC (Students must take both)
ENGL-1301-267 - 12:00pm-1:00pm
EDUC-1300-074 - 1:30pm-2:50pm
Classes for Spring semester: (Spring Schedule TBA)
ENGL 1302 (Composition 2)
Another core curriculum class
Anyone who meets the requirements and is willing to commit can join!
Students must commit to a one-year program by enrolling in both Ascender-designated classes (Fall & Spring) and attending at least three Ascender events per semester. Being paired with a mentor is optional.
The Round Rock campus cohorts are for TSI complete students only.
(There are other campuses with cohorts for students in need of developmental courses)
Students who have not already completed EDUC-1300, ENGL-1301, & ENGL-1302 are welcome to join.
Students who are pursuing degree plans with transferrable coursework are encouraged to apply.
(Please discuss with your Ascender Advisor if your degree plan includes the courses in the Ascender program.)
Ascender welcomes applications from all first-year college students. Follow these steps:
Apply to ACC
Connect with Ascender Advisor
Commitment and Registration
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.
Step #1: Complete the Commitment Form
Before being approved for classes, students must first commit to the Ascender Program by completing the official Commitment Form.
Once the form is submitted, you may complete a Registration Petition to request for your preferred course pairings at the Round Rock campus.
Step #2: Request Registration
Once you’ve submitted the commitment form, please complete the form below to request registration for the course pairing of your choice at the Round Rock campus.
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.
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.
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.