What is AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination)

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college-readiness program that prepares underrepresented middle and high school students for college enrollment and success through rigorous coursework, study skills instruction, and college preparation support.

AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. It is a nonprofit college-readiness program implemented in schools nationwide that focuses on preparing underrepresented students — primarily first-generation college students, students from low-income families, and students of color — for college enrollment and success. AVID targets the "academic middle" — students who have the potential for college but may lack the academic preparation, resources, or support systems to get there.

Who AVID Serves

AVID primarily targets students who are:

First-generation college students — No parent or guardian attended college
From underrepresented groups — Historically underrepresented in four-year colleges
In the academic middle — Students with GPA between 2.0 and 3.5 who are capable of college-prep coursework
Motivated and willing to accept the challenge of a rigorous academic program

AVID Elective Class

The centerpiece of AVID is the AVID Elective class — a rigorous, college-prep elective taken by AVID students. The class uses four methodologies:

1. Writing to Learn

Students use Cornell Notes and reflective writing across all subjects to process and retain information.

2. Inquiry

Socratic Seminar discussions and higher-order questioning to develop critical thinking.

3. Collaboration

Students work in collaborative study groups called Tutorial Support Groups, facilitated by trained college tutors, to address academic challenges.

4. Organization and Time Management

Binder checks, planners, and organizational systems to develop the habits of successful college students.

AVID's WICOR Method

AVID summarizes its approach as WICOR:

Writing
Inquiry
Collaboration
Organization
Reading

AVID Across Grade Levels

AVID Elementary — Builds foundational skills and college awareness (K–5)
AVID Middle School — Preparation for high school and college-prep coursework
AVID High School — Core program with elective class and college application support
AVID for Higher Education — Support programs at colleges and universities

Outcomes

Schools with AVID programs report:

Higher rates of 4-year college enrollment among AVID students compared to peers
Higher rates of AP course enrollment and exam taking
Improved graduation rates
Stronger college persistence and completion rates

AVID is implemented in all 50 states and more than 16 countries.