USAA Ascent Scholars Program

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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

The USAA Ascent Scholars Program is competitive.

Application Deadline: January 22, 2026
Notification of Award: February 2, 2026

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 will be 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

Call to Action

Ready to take the next step toward your professional future?

Apply to the USAA Ascent Scholars Program and invest in your career readiness, leadership development, and professional growth.