USAA Ascent Scholars Program

Program Overview

The USAA Ascent Scholars Program is a competitive scholarship initiative designed to prepare high‑potential students in the College of AI, Cyber and Computing for professional success. Through a combination of financial support, career coaching, mentoring, and high‑impact learning experiences, the program strengthens students’ career readiness and workforce preparation during the Spring 2026 semester.

Why Apply?

As a USAA Ascent Scholar, students receive:
• A monetary scholarship
• Personalized career coaching
• Peer mentoring support
• Access to high‑impact professional experiences
• Opportunities to represent the College of AI, Cyber & Computing

This program is ideal for students seeking financial support to engage in career-focused activities and to gain hands‑on experience aligned with industry and workforce expectations.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:
• Be an undergraduate student in a College of AI, Cyber and Computing major
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Be enrolled in at least 12 semester credit hours
• Demonstrate engagement or planned engagement in career readiness activities

Application Details

Not accepting applications at this time.
The USAA Ascent Scholars Program is competitive. Students with a strong interest who are still identifying career engagement opportunities are encouraged to apply. However, priority will be given to those with identified opportunities.

Scholarship Levels & Expectations

Scholarship amounts and expectations are based on academic classification. All requirements must be completed during the Spring 2026 semester.

Lower Division (Freshmen & Sophomores – 60 or fewer credit hours)

Award Amount: $750

Program Expectations:

  • Meet with a Career Coach at least once
  • Meet with a Peer Mentor at least once
  • Represent the College at one approved recruitment or community event:
    • Roadrunner Preview Day
    • SPII Grand Opening
    • Other college-designated recruiting or community event
  • Attend the STEM Career Expo
  • Complete one semester‑long high‑impact experience such as:
    • Professional development workshops
    • Job shadowing or micro‑experiences
    • Study abroad *
    • Research, competitions, or hackathons
    • Résumé‑building projects or certifications

Upper Division (Juniors & Seniors – 61 or more credit hours)

Award Amount: $2,500

Program Expectations:

  • Meet with a Career Coach at least twice
  • Meet with a Peer Mentor at least twice
  • Represent the College at one approved recruitment or community event:
    • Roadrunner Preview Day
    • SPII Grand Opening
    • Other college-designated recruiting or community event
  • Attend the STEM Career Expo
  • Complete one semester‑long high‑impact experience such as:
    • Internship
    • Faculty‑mentored research
    • Study abroad *
    • Leadership in a student organization
    • Participation in a USAA SSC signature program

*Study Abroad Supplemental Funding

Students completing an approved Study Abroad experience during Spring 2026 may receive additional funding:

  • Lower Division: +$750 (total award up to $1,500)
  • Upper Division: +$1,000 (total award up to $3,500)

Supplemental funding is contingent upon program completion and availability of funds.

Important Notes

  • A total of 24 scholarships are awarded (12 lower‑division and 12 upper‑division)
  • Students who do not complete all required program components by the end of Spring 2026 will forfeit their award
  • Supplemental funding is limited and awarded on a rolling basis