ACT-SO Achievement Program
Pursue your creative talents and academic dreams with purpose and unrestricted passion.
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Explore your passions
Each year, high school students across the country start a journey to sharpen their skills through the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO). From visual arts and business to performing and culinary arts, participants work with community-based volunteers for a year to develop projects and performances. The experience culminates in local and national events where students compete for scholarships and other rewards.
Get with the program
August: Local programs, hosted by NAACP units, kick off annual ACT-SO activities.
September: Local programs begin conducting mentoring and scholastic enrichment activities.
Feb - April: Local programs host ACT-SO competitions. Gold medalists (those with scores between 95 and 100 in their category) are invited to compete at the national level.
April-July: Students continue their local mentorship and enrichment programs to prepare for the national competition.
July: Winners from the local competitions compete at the National Competition and Ceremonies, held every July.
Active ACT-SO Units
Looking to get involved? Find a local program near you!
The Lab
Be inspired, empowered, and educated! Our Masterclass Series is designed to elevate your skills and ignite your passions - packed with wisdom from industry leaders across culinary arts, performing arts, STEM & AI, and business & entrepreneurship.
SPEAK UP With ACT-SO
Chairpersons Portal
The local ACT-SO Chairpersons resource library has everything you need to mount your local program.
The portal includes the current Chairpersons' Manual, templates, monthly huddle recaps, and more.
Unit Intent Form
Looking to host a local ACT-SO program? Complete the Unit Intent Form by October 30th*.
*ACT-SO chairs must be appointed by the current Branch President of an active NAACP branch.
2026-2027 ACT-SO Calendar
View the full schedule of events for the program year.
This calendar includes local competition dates. Check back frequently for calendar updates.
I can't think of any other program that has played a bigger part in preparing me for my future the way ACT-SO has.Â
- Taylor C. 2018-20 ACT-SO alumni, East St. Louis. Categories: Drawing, Entrepreneurship, Filmmaking and Original EssayAn enduring legacy of Black excellence
ACT-SO aims to:
- Recognize creative talent and academic achievement in the next generation of leaders.
- Provide and assist students with the necessary skills to establish goals and acquire the confidence and training to make a successful contribution to society.
- Mobilize adults to promote academic and artistic excellence.
Overview
The Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) is a year-round achievement program designed to recruit, stimulate, and encourage high academic and cultural achievement among high school students. The National ACT-SO Competition is the exciting culmination of this effort, held annually during the NAACP National Convention, where students compete for scholarships, prizes, and recognition.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
All you need to know about the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics program.
Calling all ACT-SO Alumni!
We're gearing up for our 50th Anniversary, and we want to know: Where are you now? Your feedback will help us honor our past and build a stronger future for the next generation of competitors. It only takes 3 minutes.
Volunteer With Us!
ACT-SO takes a village. ACT-SO alumni, local branches, volunteers, and sponsors ensure a fulfilling experience for young participants. Check with your local NAACP branch or contact us for more information to support and volunteer with ACT-SO.
Phone: (410) 580-5777
Email: actso@naacpnet.org
Share Your Journey!
ACT-SO has inspired creativity, discipline, and excellence for nearly 50 years. Whether you're an alum, expert, participant, or volunteer, your story is a vital part of its legacy, and we want to hear from you.
Share Your StoryACT-SO is synonymous with success. It is my sincerest hope that every ACT-SO participant takes risks in the safe, creative, and nurturing space ACT-SO provides. Chart your course. Share your story. Change the world. Â
- Larry Brown, Jr. National Director, NAACP ACT-SO