Achieving a College Education (ACE) | Maricopa Community Colleges

The ACE Program

College can feel far away—expensive, competitive, and overwhelming. The Achieving a College Education (ACE) program is here to change that. As a high school student in Maricopa County, you can start earning real college credits now, for free, putting you ahead before you ever set foot on campus. With connections to more than 100 local high schools, the ACE program offered through Maricopa Community Colleges makes the path to a degree feel less like a leap and more like the next natural step—for you and your family.

ACE is built around one idea: your success. Whether you're trying to finish high school strong, figure out what comes next with college, or make strides toward a college degree or certificate—ACE walks with you every step of the way. By the time you graduate, you can earn up to 24 credit hours and be well on your way to a college degree, whether continuing your education at one of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges or transferring to a university.

Is ACE Right for You?

ACE was created to help high school students who are working hard despite real challenges. If you recognize yourself in any of the below and you’re a sophomore who has earned at least 6 high school credits, we want to hear from you. ACE is open to everyone, regardless of background.

Navigating financial challenges

Being the first in their family to consider college

Living in foster care, transitional housing, or a single-parent household

Balancing a job or parenting alongside school

How to Apply

This program is not restricted to participants on any protected basis, including race, color, or national origin. All individuals are encouraged to apply and participate.

Ready to take the first step? Here's what your application includes:

A personal essay (300 words)—your chance to tell us your story
Two recommendations from people who know you well (include their full name and email address)
Your unofficial high school transcripts
A few short forms, including a commitment statement and information release

When we review your application, we look at the whole picture—the essay and recommendations matter just as much as your background and circumstances. Some schools may also invite you for a brief interview.

You'll hear back by email or mail with your application’s status, and accepted students will receive a scholarship offer and an invitation to attend a required New ACE Student and Parent Orientation.

Submit the Application

Your ACE Journey: What to Expect

September – December: Meet Your College

During your sophomore year, ACE recruiters from our colleges across the Valley may visit participating high schools — including Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain, Glendale, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Scottsdale, South Mountain, and Rio Salado. This is your chance to ask questions, learn what each college offers through ACE, and figure out which campus feels right for you. You're also encouraged to reach out directly to any of these colleges at any time for more information.

Prefer to learn from home? Rio Salado is the only ACE college offering a fully online program — all others are in person.

March – May: The Moment You've Been Waiting For

Notifications go out — keep an eye on your email and mailbox for your status, updates, and timelines. If you're accepted, you'll receive a scholarship offer along with instructions to claim it through your chosen college. Timelines vary by college, but accepted students will also be invited to a mandatory New Student & Parent Orientation before classes begin.

June: Day One

Classes kick off in June alongside your cohort — a group of students just like you, starting this journey together.