Thrive Program FAQ’s

The Thrive Program supports eligible Augsburg University students in the Education Department Licensure Program. The program provides mentorship, professional development, networking opportunities, community building, and direct tuition assistance.

Thrive is focused on recruiting, engaging, and supporting future teachers through student development, mentorship, networking, and community involvement. The program helps students transition smoothly into Augsburg and encourages their academic, professional, and personal growth.

• Mentorship from Thrive faculty and staff
• Professional development opportunities
• Networking and community-building events
• Leadership development opportunities
• Direct tuition assistance for eligible students
• Possible support with qualifying books and course fees

The Thrive Program is looking for eligible Education students who are committed to graduating and obtaining their teaching license at Augsburg University. The program specifically supports students who belong to groups that have been historically underrepresented at four-year colleges and universities.

Yes. Thrive is designed for eligible students in Augsburg University’s Education Department Licensure Program.

Thrive fosters a climate of open communication. Program staff may not know what you are experiencing unless you share it with them. Students are encouraged to communicate with Thrive faculty and staff so the program can better understand and support their needs.

Thrive Scholars are expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a minimum Completion Rate of 68%.

If a student falls below either requirement, they will be placed on probation and given one semester to raise their GPA and/or Completion Rate.

Thrive hosts events at least once a month throughout the year. Scholars are expected to attend a minimum of two Thrive events per year.

Events may include guest lectures, leadership sessions, mentorship sessions, community-building social events, and the fall or spring Thrive Weekend Retreat.

Thrive Scholars are expected to meet with Thrive faculty or staff once per semester. Meetings may include faculty mentorship, Thrive Financial Services, advising, registration appointments, or other Thrive-related support.

Once accepted as a Thrive Scholar, students may be eligible for financial assistance up to $7,800 per academic year.

Thrive defines the academic year as beginning July 1 and ending June 30.

No. Thrive funds are not cumulative and are available on a use-it-or-lose-it basis.

No. Thrive direct tuition support funds come from the Educator Tuition Assistance Program (ETAP) Grant and do not need to be repaid.

Students should complete the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, every year. Students should pay close attention to the deadlines listed on the FAFSA website.

After receiving your Award Letter, forward the Award Letter and your current Augsburg invoice or balance to Abdikarim Abdi at abdikari@augsburg.edu.

Thrive will respond within 5 business days of receiving your invoice or balance to outline a plan for direct tuition support. Email replies may be delayed during the summer.

Students may have different disbursements based on their Federal Aid Award Letter, the number of credits they are registered for, the credits planned for fall, spring, and summer if applicable, and when they complete their FAFSA.

The Thrive Program may be able to assist with qualifying books and course fees. Students should email Abdikarim Abdi for more information.

Students interested in becoming Thrive Scholars should complete the Thrive Scholar Application form.

You may apply at any time.

Yes. Students are welcome to email thriveprogram@augsburg.edu to introduce themselves and ask questions.