Upward Bound Program Overview

What is Upward Bound?

Upward Bound is a pre-college preparatory program that is designed to motivate and provide academic skills for students from first-generation college and low-income families who are interested in pursuing an educational program beyond high school.

Who is eligible?

Students who are eligible must be in the 9th, 10th or 11th grade. Students must obtain two letters of recommendations from either teachers, counselors, social service agencies or others who are well acquainted with their academic potential for success in college. In addition, eligible students must be from low-income or first-generation college families where neither parent has received a baccalaureate degree.

How can it help me?

Upward Bound gives the high school student an opportunity to learn first-hand what college life is all about and helps the student to develop those skills necessary to succeed in college. The program emphasizes reading, writing, math, study skills and science. Courses are taught by skilled instructors whose primary concern is the student. Personal, career and academic counseling is also provided.

What do you do in Upward Bound?

During the summer, Upward Bound students live on the campus of Wittenberg University for six weeks and participate in a variety of academic, social and cultural activities. During their regular school year, Upward Bound students are in weekly contact with Upward Bound staff members including teachers and tutor-counselors through classes, home visits, counseling sessions and tutorials. Upward Bound students also participate in recreational activities such as swimming, softball, volleyball and Ping-Pong. For cultural enrichment, Upward Bound students visit museums, attend plays, concerts and recitals and go on educational field trips.

Our Services are Free!!

Upward Bound students receive a monthly stipend during the regular school year and a weekly stipend during the six-week summer program. All program services are provided free of charge.

How Can Upward Bound Help Me?

Upward Bound gives the high school student an opportunity to learn first-hand what college life is all about and helps the student to develop those skills necessary to succeed in college. The program emphasizes reading, writing, math, study skills, and science. Courses are taught by skilled instructors whose primary concern is the student. Personal, career, and academic counseling is also provided.

What is Provided?

  • Academic Advising: Helping students in scheduling the proper courses to meet college entrance requirements.
  • Fee waivers for ACT and SAT tests: Helping students to meet the cost of taking the required college entrance examinations.
  • Career assessment: Helping students to decide what college and field of study are most suitable for them.
  • Financial aid assistance: Helping students to complete the necessary applications for admission and financial aid.
  • Paying the application fees: Helping students to meet the cost of paying for up to three college application fees of their choice.
  • College credit: Providing students with the opportunity to receive credit for a minimum of two college courses at Wittenberg University before they begin their first year in college.
  • Math/Science Regional Centers: Providing an opportunity for students who have demonstrated a high aptitude for math and science to participate in one of 72 Upward Bound Math/Science Regional Centers in the United States.

How Do I Apply?

Mailing Address:

Upward Bound Program
Wittenberg University
P.O. Box 720
Springfield, Ohio 45501

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