Upward Bound is a college preparatory program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The purpose of Upward Bound is to help students develop or improve their skills and motivation necessary to successfully complete high school and graduate college. Upward Bound provides intensive, year-round academic services and enrichment activities to prepare students holistically for success in college.
or download and print an APPLICATION
During the summer, Upward Bound students attend a six-week residential academy designed to provide a college going experience, as well as give a head start on the students next year in school. The summer academy offers:
- ACT/SAT preparation sessions
- Career exploration and Job shadowing opportunities
- Mathematics, English, science, and writing classes
- Enrichment and STEM activities
- College tours
- Financial aid and scholarship workshops
- Financial and economic literacy
- Cultural/Enrichment trips
- Mentoring
- High school elective credit
Academic Year (august-may)
Upward Bound also provides a variety of educational, cultural and career enrichment experiences throughout the year which includes:
- College Prep Saturday Sessions
- Tutoring afterschool weekly
- ACT/SAT preparation
- College visits and field trips
- Assistance completing the FASFA application
- Leadership and community service opportunities
- Assistance finding/completing college and scholarship applications
- Cultural enrichment experiences
- Access to technology and education resources
- Monthly participation stipend
- High school elective credit
how to become an upward bound member
Students interested in joining Upward Bound are encouraged to apply during the 8th, 9th and 10th grade. Limited spaces are available for students who have completed the 11th grade. To be a member the student must:
- Have a desire to attend college after high school and would benefit from our services
- Be willing to participate in Upward Bound until after high school graduation
- Be enrolled in a partner high school: Logan, Capital, Nitro, Riverside, Sissonville, South Charleston, St. Albans (If in middle school, the student will enroll in a partner school next year)
- Be a first generation college bound student (neither parent has obtained a bachelors degree) or meet family financial guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Education
- Complete and submit the Upward Bound Application
After submitting the application, all students must ask his/her/their current guidance school counselor, math teacher and English teacher to submit the approperiate recommendation form below.
CONTACT INFORMATION
West Virginia State University
Pre-College Upward Bound
PO Box 1000
Sullivan Hall 223 East
(304) 766-3120
Our Team