Upward Bound is a college preparatory program funded by the US Department of Education. The purpose of Upward Bound is to help students develop the 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.
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:
- Mathematics, science, English and writing classes
- Enrichment and STEM activities
- ACT/SAT preparation sessions
- Financial aid and scholarship workshops
- Career exploration and Job shadowing opportunities
- Character and Leadership development
- Financial and economic literacy
- Community service opportunities
- College tours
- Cultural/Enrichment trip
- Monthly participation stipend
- 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:
- Weekly Academic Coaching
- College Prep Saturday Academic Sessions
- Tutoring and afterschool homework (Monday-Thursday)
- ACT/SAT preparation sessions
- College visits and field trips
- Assistance completing the FASFA application
- Community Service opportunities
- Assistance finding/completing college and scholarship applications
- Mentoring
- Leadership development opportunities
- Cultural enrichment experiences
- Technology and education resources
- Monthly participation stipend
- High school elective credit
Students interested in joining Upward Bound are encouraged to apply during the 8th or 9th grade. Limited spaces are available for students who have completed the 10th grade.
A student must meet the following for acceptance into the program:
- Be a first generation college bound student (neither parent has obtained a four-year college degree) or meet federal income level guidelines
- 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)
- Have a desire to attend college after high school
- Be willing to remain in the program until high school graduation
A student must complete and submit the
Upward Bound Application.
After submitting the application, the student will need to ask his or her current guidance school counselor, math teacher and English teacher to complete the appropriate assessment form below.
To request a paper copy of the Upward Bound application, please call the WVSU Upward Bound office at 304-766-3120.
Our Team