About Upward Bound

The goal of Upward Bound is to prepare youth for success in educational and/or training endeavors beyond high school by developing skills needed and the motivation necessary for them to become successful both academically and socially.

Upward Bound was established in 1965 as one of the federally-funded TRIO programs for students that qualify as either low-income or first generation. Also, it is estimated that over 2.2 million students have benefited from the TRIO programs.

Using a "Back-To-Basics" Approach, participants receive instruction in English, Math, the Natural Sciences, and Spanish. They also receive career and personal development, exposure to the Fine Arts, and participants also perform mandatory community service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for participation in the Upward Bound Program?

• Those families whose taxable income falls into the guidelines set forth by the department of education; I.E. Family of 3 with a taxable income less than $23,505 or 
  
• Families whose child would be the first to graduate from college in the household or 
  
• Families whose child attends high school in the cities of Hampton or Newport News

What grade levels are serviced?

• The Upward Bound Program proudly serves students in grades nine through twelve that meet federal guidelines.

What are the incentives of being a part of Upward Bound?

• Students receive beneficial instruction from compassionate and qualified instructors
• Fee waivers for items such as college application fees and registration fees for the ACT and SAT Tests
• Students receive a stipend for attending the program

What are the components of the Upward Bound Program?

• Saturday Sessions: During the academic year, the Upward Bound Program offers tutorial assistance with participant's homework on selected Saturdays from 9am-1pm. Counselors in the program also assist the students with various academic and social issues.
• Summer Residential Component: For six weeks, Upward Bound Students reside on campus, take the classes that they will be taking for the next academic year (including Spanish, fine arts, core high school courses such as math, science, and English ), take cultural field trips, and tour colleges and universities.

How can I become a part of the "Upward Bound Experience"?

• Contact our office to request an application. Applications are also available in your child's guidance department (middle & high school). Submit a COMPLETED application for processing. If you qualify, an interview will be scheduled for final determination of admission into the program.

What materials are required during the application process?

• 1040 tax forms (taxable income)
  
• Medical consent form with updated physical
  
• Recent report card or transcript
  
• Recommendation form
  
• Parent consent/involvement form
  
• SOL results
  
• Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) documentation (if applicable)

Contact Upward Bound

Other Trio Programs