TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama is providing Alabama high school students new immersive, dedicated support and direction as they prepare for college.
Crimson Compass offers two distinct programs: Tide to Success, a self-paced, online course that explores college planning fundamentals which will be offered at no cost to Alabama residents; and UA ACTivate, a new experiential summer program offering an early glimpse of life as a student at the Capstone. Both programs include an ACT test preparation component so participants can confidently prepare for the college admissions process.
“As the state’s flagship university, The University of Alabama has a responsibility to help Alabama’s high school students in their pursuit of a college education,” UA President Peter J. Mohler said. “Crimson Compass offers our state’s next generation of scholars and leaders transformative programs to help them in their journey to successful careers.”
Tide to Success
Tide to Success is a six-hour, self-paced, online course structured around ACT test preparation designed to help students build the skills, strategies and confidence needed to succeed on standardized exams. The course focuses on targeted test prep instruction, including skill-building modules, guided practice and access to online practice tests that allow students to apply and assess their learning.
In addition, the course covers college readiness topics such as admissions and scholarship strategies, academic majors, career pathways, workforce development and an overview of campus life at UA. Students are supported by a course facilitator who offers office hours and assistance with course navigation, and those who complete the program earn a digital badge recognizing their achievement.
Tide to Success will be offered twice per academic term starting in the fall. The course is free for Alabama residents and $200 for out-of-state students. Registration will open in July, and the first course is scheduled to start in September.
UA ACTivate
UA ACTivate is a four-day summer residential program designed to build college readiness and engagement by enhancing ACT test‑taking strategies, introducing the University’s academic and student support resources, and providing comprehensive insight into admissions processes, academic programs and campus life.
Each day will feature five hours of structured ACT preparation with an in-person instructor, including a full practice test, along with intentional student team building activities to foster collaboration, confidence and peer connection.
Students will get an in-depth introduction to UA by exploring academic majors, career pathways, and workforce development intersections through a focused seminar connecting education to future careers. They will also take part in engaging presentations on student organizations and campus life, and a seminar on admissions and scholarship tips and strategies.
UA ACTivate summer sessions will be June 15-18 and July 13-16. The program fee is $799 and includes lodging, all meals, test prep materials and student activities. Each session will be limited to 200 students, and acceptance is based on a first come-first served basis. A waiting list will be created once each session reaches maximum capacity. Students must be 16 years or older to participate.
“Crimson Compass is designed to meet Alabama students where they are and help them take their next steps with confidence,” Dr. Matt McLendon, associate vice president and executive director for enrollment management, said. “Tide to Success and UA ACTivate go beyond traditional test prep. These programs empower in‑state students to discover their strengths, explore academic possibilities and envision themselves thriving on campus.”
For more information about both programs and registration information, visit the Crimson Compass website.
The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides a forward-thinking environment and over 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. As the state’s largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.
Contact
Alex House, UA Strategic Communications, alex.house@ua.edu