RECOGNIZED ASCA MODEL PROGRAM (RAMP)

The Recognized ASCA Model Program® (RAMP®) recognizes schools committed to delivering school counseling programs aligned with the ASCA National Model® framework. The RAMP® designation demonstrates to administrators, school boards, families and the community at large that the schools are committed to supporting the mission of the school and district. To date, more than 1,600 schools have earned the RAMP® designation. View current RAMP® schools here. 

The RAMP® application process is the culmination of successfully implementing the ASCA National Model® framework to show evidence of direct and indirect services to students, program planning and improved student outcomes as a result of the school counseling program. 

Schools considering seeking the RAMP® designation are encouraged to review the program assessment tool to determine whether your school counseling program is aligned with the ASCA National Model® and to determine when to apply. Schools will need at least one entire academic year to collect the data and information needed to fulfill the RAMP® application requirements.

The RAMP® designation lasts for five years. Schools are encouraged to maintain their RAMP® status by submitting a successful application at the end of their fourth year (Re-RAMP®).

Applications are due Oct. 15. (As of 2027, applications will be due Oct. 1.)

Want to receive the quarterly RAMP® Updates newsletter? Get on the mailing list.

As ASCA continues to refine the RAMP® application and scoring experience, ASCA has temporarily paused the School of Distinction designation for schools earning 58 or higher. This pause does not impact the benefits RAMP® recipients receive. We look forward to receiving and reviewing future applications. Thank you for your support of this national recognition program.

RAMP FAQs

How do I know if I’m ready to seek the RAMP® designation?Download the program assessment tool to see if your school counseling program is data-informed and includes all components of the ASCA National Model®. 

How do I plan for the application process? Where do I start?Use this application timeline to plan your year of data collection prior to applying for RAMP®. The checklist covers all components of the RAMP® application. 

What does it cost and how do I pay?The application fee is $250 for schools with an ASCA member on staff and $500 for schools without an ASCA member. Instructions for submitting payment are included at the end of the application within the RAMP® application portal.

What are the benefits of RAMP®?Beginning with the RAMP® Class of 2027 (successful RAMP® applications submitted October 2026), RAMP® benefits will include:

• Complimentary ASCA membership for the first year of RAMP® designation
• Discounted membership for the remaining eligible years that you are employed at your RAMP® school
• Recognition at ASCA’s Annual Conference
• Two complimentary tickets per school to the RAMP® awards event at the ASCA Annual Conference
• A plaque, suitable for display in your school
• Template press release to personalize and send to local press
• Digital toolkit

Is there data to support the effectiveness of RAMP® schools vs. non-RAMP® schools?Yes, in fact, several studies have found that RAMP® schools, as well as schools with programs aligned to the ASCA National Model® result in improved student outcomes.

Do I have to have a low student-to-school-counselor ratio to apply for RAMP®?Not at all. In fact, the average ratio among the 2025 RAMP® designees is 362:1 with a low of 77:1 and a high of 902:1.

I am applying for RAMP®  without a coach or trainer to assist me. Where can I find help? Take advantage of RAMP® office hours to help you better understand the scoring rubric. You may also submit general help questions to Deirdra Williams.

How do I know if I should use the fourth edition or fifth edition of the ASCA National Model® and templates to apply?October 2026 applications: Can use fourth or fifth editionOctober 2027 and beyond: Must use fifth edition

View the RAMP® in the Fifth Edition for more fourth and fifth edition RAMP details. You can follow this suggested RAMP application timeline and review the fifth edition rubric to help you plan for submitting a fifth edition application.

What is the Signature Page, and where can I find the form?
The signature page is an acknowledgement by your school counseling team, advisory council, school board representative and principal that the RAMP® application has been thoroughly reviewed and accepted. You can download the form from the Finalize section of the application portal or here. The completed form of original signatures must be uploaded in the Finalize section of the application portal before submitting the application. Plan ahead for time to obtain the signatures.