Upward Bound / Upward Bound Math-Science Programs

The Upward Bound program provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. Guided by the belief that education should be available to all persons with the potential to succeed at that level, the program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in high school academic performance and subsequent higher education pursuits. The goal of the program is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education, enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. 

There is absolutely no cost to participate in the Upward Bound program. As a federally funded program, all costs are paid. However, the program does not cover personal purchases (i.e. souvenirs). 

Individuals are eligible to participate if they are in the 9th – 12th grade during the enrollment period and attend one of the ten target high schools. Students must reside in households in which their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have not earned a Bachelor’s Degree and/or meet federal income requirements. 

University of Georgia Upward Bound/ Upward Bound Math- Science Program is funded to serve 210 students. 

All prospective students must complete an application for admission. 

A completed application, if entering in the 9th grade, includes the submission of the following documents: copy of 8th grade report card, recommendation from middle school counselor, recommendation from middle school teacher, personal statement, signed copy of parent’s most recent tax forms, and any supplemental documentation to support income statement.  

A completed application, if entering in the 10th- 12th grades, includes the submission of the following documents: copy of transcript recommendation from high school counselor, recommendation from high school teacher, personal statement, signed copy of parent’s most recent tax forms, and any supplemental documentation to support income statement. 

In addition, applicants are interviewed by members of the staff. 

The UGA Upward Bound enrollment period is rolling enrollment. Meaning that students can be admitted through out the year but once spots have been filled students will be put on a waiting list. 

Applicants are selected based on a combination of factors: completed application, essay, recommendations, grades, need, and interview. However, all applicants must meet the income and/or first-generation status requirements to be considered for the program. 

Applicants will be notified once they have submitted application fully, and interviewed. If admitted to the program, students and parents are required to attend a New Student Orientation (failure to attend will forfeit your acceptance). Following the New Student Orientation, students will begin active participation in the program. 

Candidates who did not receive an acceptance letter may be placed on our waiting list and will be notified if any new spots become available. Some candidates will receive a rejection letter or contacted by target school advisor. These candidates can reapply the following year if they are in the 9th grade. 

Participants are expected to commit to Upward Bound until they graduate from high school. In committing to the program, students should attend all mandatory sessions and turn in all required documents at the time they are due. Additionally, students are required to exhibit appropriate behavior at all UB/UBMS sponsored events and respect UB/UBMS staff, peers, and themselves at all times. Students and parents sign a contract pledging their agreement to uphold UB/UBMS standards upon entering the program. 

Upward Bound offers an Academic Year component in which students receive supplemental instruction in academic, cultural, and social areas, as well as a Summer Residential component – an intensive six-week instructional program requiring students to live on campus during the summer. All services are provided through a federally funded grant and are free to the participant. 

No. However, Upward Bound will provide resources and materials to help students/parents pay for their postsecondary education. For example, but not limited to, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

Some of the benefits associated with joining our program include: 

• Access to a personal Academic Advisor geared to help you succeed in high school and beyond
• Exposure to a plethora of cultural and college activities
• Participation in an intensive 6-week academic experience
• Preparation for standardized tests (PSAT, SAT, GHSGT)
• Assistance with the admission and financial aid processes
• Receipt of monthly stipends 

No. Once accepted into Upward Bound you are in the program until you graduate from high school. 

No. The Upward Bound program is a federally funded program and cannot guarantee admission to any postsecondary institution. If a student is interested in attending UGA, we can help facilitate the process of applying. However, the student must meet the basic requirements of the university admission’s office.