The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LETTERED
L
E
T
T
E
R
E
D
More clues leading to the result LETTERED
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "academic" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case academic = lettered.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LETTERED mean?
LETTERED verb- To print, inscribe, or paint letters on something.
- (scholastic) To earn a varsity letter (award).
- Marked with letters.
- Literate (able to read writing in letters).
- Educated, especially having a degree (entitled to put an abbreviation such as BS, MA, PhD, MD after a signature).