Apply for RAMP

The first step to applying for RAMP^® is to use the program assessment tool to determine whether your program is ready to seek the RAMP^® designation. The assessment tool outlines the components of RAMP^®. These components are represented in the application templates schools will use to prepare materials to be submitted in the online RAMP^® Application Portal.

Application Years

October 2025: Schools applying for RAMP^® in October 2025 should use the fourth edition scoring rubric.
October 2026: Schools may use the fourth edition or the fifth edition scoring rubric.
October 2027 and beyond: Schools must use the fifth edition scoring rubric.

Read more to understand what is accepted when. Note: applicants must use only fourth edition templates for the fourth edition applications and fifth edition templates for the fifth edition application. The RAMP^® application covers an entire school year. Use this suggested fifth edition RAMP^® application timeline to help you plan for your data collection year.

Fourth Edition Scoring
Each application is judged by a peer review team, which is facilitated by a lead RAMP reviewer. Schools that earn scores of 54 or higher out of a possible 60 are awarded RAMP status. Schools that earn between 45 and 53 are invited to resubmit eligible parts of the application for another opportunity to earn RAMP.  Schools that are unsuccessful in their resubmission efforts are then invited to become Programs of Promise. They receive mentoring while still working on the same application to be eligible for RAMP the following year. Schools that earn below 45 points will need to submit a brand new application for a future deadline.

RAMP Eligibility Requirements

Elementary, middle, high, pre-K–8, pre-K–12, public, private and charter schools may seek the RAMP^® designation. Schools should be staffed with a school counseling program, have a designated school identification number in their state or region as well as a principal. Virtual (elementary, middle, high, pre-K–8, pre-K–12), alternative and career academy schools may also seek the RAMP designation as long as staffing requirements are met. While adult schools are typically not eligible, adult schools with a component that serves pre-K–12 and meets staffing requirements should contact Deirdra Williams and request a review for eligibility. Schools may be located within and outside the United States. 

Although a specific number of years implementing the ASCA National Model^® framework is not required, schools considering seeking the RAMP^® designation are encouraged to review the program assessment tool. This will assist schools to determine whether your school counseling program is aligned with the ASCA National Model^®, thus giving you confidence to readiness in applying. Not sure that your school meets criteria? Contact  Deirdra Williams.

Interested in pursuing RAMP^® but need some help? Consider working with an ASCA coach or sign up for on-site training with an ASCA-Certified Trainer^®.