Armory College Prep

Helping New York City’s Track Athletes Achieve College Dreams

Armory College Prep is a year-round college success program for high school student who train at The Armory in Washington Heights at no cost to the students.

Through rigorous academic support, personalized college counseling, and intensive writing instruction, we help young people from underserved communities gain admission to right fit four-year colleges, with generous financial aid packages and high confidence.

Whether you're a 9th grader looking to build strong study habits, or a junior preparing college essays, Armory College Prep offers the guidance, structure, and inspiration you need to succeed.

🏅 Open exclusively to high school students who train at The Armory’s track & field facility. We only accept students up until November of their Junior year.

💡 Why It Matters

In a city full of potential, too many high school students lack access to the kind of academic support and college guidance that leads to long-term success. At The Armory Foundation, we believe in the power of sport and education to change lives. Our students are more than athletes, they’re scholars, leaders, and future changemakers.

Since 2016, 100% of ACP High School Seniors have been accepted into four-year colleges.

We don’t just prepare students for college - we prepare them for life.

Academic Enrichment

Armory College Prep (ACP) offers rigorous academic support that complements students' schoolwork and builds skills for long-term success.

• Diagnostic Assessment to identify stengths and weeknesses

• Tailored programming to address results of the diagnostic assessment with 1-on-1 tutoring support

• Specific subject homework help

• Khan Academy-powered SAT prep with real-time practice scores

• Remote coaching throughout the week

• 155-point average PSAT–SAT growth (compared to 47-point national average)

“ACP helped me not only improve in school, but actually enjoy learning again.”
— J.R., ACP Student, Class of 2023

College Applications

Our students work closely with expert counselors who help them navigate every step of the college application process.

• We build a customized college list based on each student’s goals and strengths

• Create an application timeline and prepare submissions ahead of deadlines

• Learn financial aid strategies to reduce debt and maximize scholarships

• Visit multiple college campuses each year

🎓 Our students apply to 2–3 colleges by November 30, and at least 6 colleges by December 31 of their senior year, ensuring maximum opportunity for acceptances and financial aid.

Writing & Arts

College essays are more than words, they’re personal statements of power. We help students find their voice.

• Personal essay writing support from first draft to final submission

• Assistance with scholarship & internship applications

• Close reading of classic and contemporary works

• Summer creative arts curriculum with drama, acting, and a final showcase

“Writing my story with ACP’s help made me realize how far I’ve come and how far I can go.”
— E.K., ACP Class of 2022

Who Can Join?

The High School Program is open to high school track & field athletes who actively train at The Armory, and to students who have graduated from the Great Minds academic program.

• Students in 9th and 10th grade may 24-25 APPLICATION apply anytime.

• 11th grade students may apply until November 30.

• We are not accepting 12th grade applicants at this time.

Results That Matter

Support Our Work

Armory College Prep is made possible by generous donors who believe in the power of education and athletics. As a program of The Armory Foundation, a nonprofit serving New York City youth, your support directly fuels scholarships, academic instruction, and college success.

To learn more about partnership or donation opportunities, contact:

Rita Finkel
Director of Armory College Prep / Co-President of The Armory Foundation
📧 rfinkel@armorytrack.org