ASAP Mission

The Austin Scholars Awards Program is dedicated to empowering college-bound students from the Austin neighborhood by providing financial support, mentorship, and encouragement as they embark on their higher education journey. Working collaboratively with high school counselors and college coaches, we aim to identify students who are committed to achieving a college degree and would benefit from our program’s resources.

Our mission is to inspire students to stay in school, believe in their potential, and embrace the transformative opportunities a college education offers. Through our support, we strive to foster academic success and personal growth into the critical sophomore year of college.

Key program elements include:

• Academic Expectations: Scholars are expected to complete at least 12 credit hours per term and maintain a minimum C average, verified through unofficial transcripts.  For special circumstances, please see Scholar Resources.

• Financial Assistance: Unrestricted $500 payments are disbursed twice annually (Fall and Spring semesters or Fall and Winter quarters) via Zelle® to promote financial management. Scholars receive three term payments for a total of $1,500 (as of 2020) while maintaining academic expectations above.

• Communication Standards: Scholars must correspond using their college-issued email accounts for program communications.

• Community Building: Ongoing events are hosted to connect scholars within the Austin community and provide networking opportunities.

• Mentorship and Support: We seek to pair scholars with college and career mentors when available, providing guidance and encouragement.

• Digital Engagement: Expanding our online presence through a website, newsletters, and Google Groups to keep scholars informed and engaged.

The Austin Scholars Awards Program is committed to uplifting and supporting students as they strive to achieve their educational and professional dreams.