Accelerate ASU builds equity-focused partnerships to expand college access

Across the country, school leaders are facing a familiar challenge: how to close persistent equity gaps in college access and success. Accelerate ASU is stepping in with a scalable, inclusive model that redefines what dual enrollment can look like—especially for students historically left out of early college pathways.

Through partnerships with school districts and nonprofits, Accelerate ASU brings flexible, faculty-led college courses directly into high schools. There are no GPA, transcript or application barriers, and students only transcript a course if they earn a grade they’re proud of. This model eliminates traditional hurdles that often prevent students from participating in dual enrollment, particularly first-generation students and those attending under-resourced schools.

Beyond the credits earned, what’s often most transformative is the shift in mindset: students begin to see themselves as capable, college-ready learners. For school leaders, the program helps cultivate a college-going culture without adding pressure to already stretched teaching staff or budgets.

Accelerate ASU is proving that with the right partnerships, equity in education isn’t just a goal—it’s a practice.

Learn how schools are using Accelerate ASU to create new college pathways that meet learners and schools where they are.