Advanced Computing Student Challenge

Presented by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Leadership-Class Computing Facility (LCCF) 

A unique opportunity for undergraduate students from all disciplines who want to learn or enhance computational and data analytics skills and create positive change in their community.

No prior programming experience or knowledge of the program theme is required.

Application Deadline: April 28, 2025

The paid, weeklong program with virtual training activities leading up to the experience engages students who want to work collaboratively to:

  • Learn about the applications of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and High Performance Computing
  • Experience the latest tools and techniques for exploring data through visualization
  • Expand skills in team-based problem-solving
  • Learn to communicate ideas more effectively to the general public
  • Experience a professional conference, including networking and learning about careers in computing

This cohort experience will be co-located with Practice and Experience in Advanced Research Computing (PEARC25) in Columbus, OH, and themed around Artificial Intelligence for Societal Advancement.

Apply Now

Accepted applicants will be notified by May 21, 2025.

2025 Important Dates

3/18/2025 – 4/28/2025:
Application & Selection Period
Notifications will be sent out by 5/21/2025.

5/27/2025 – 7/18/2025:
Onboarding & Training (Virtual)

7/19/2025 – 7/24/2025:
Advanced Computing Student Challenge, Columbus, OH

Meet the 2024 Participants and Mentors!

> 2024 Participants

> 2024 Mentors

Eligibility

Students will be assigned to teams to ensure a balance of backgrounds. The costs of airfare, lodging, meals, and conference registration will be provided. Additionally, a participant stipend will be provided. Eligibility requirements:

  • Be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student:
    • in good standing,
    • pursuing any major,
    • and planning to complete an undergraduate degree program at an accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Have a minimum overall GPA of at least 2.5/4.0 (or equivalent).
  • Be at least 18 years of age at the start of the program.
  • Be able to participate in virtual program training and activities leading up to the event.
  • Complete the online application form before the deadline.

LCCF ACSC Supplementary Information

Program Impact 2016-2024

225
Participants

11
Cohorts

59%
Women

12%

Community College & Opportunity-Youth

24%

African American/
Black

12%

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

27%
Hispanic/Latinx

18%
Asian

12%
White

For more information, please contact outreach@tacc.utexas.edu.

This program is funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation Award #2323116.