What is Upward Bound?

UHD Upward Bound's Mission:

Upward Bound is an intensive college-preparatory program dedicated to empowering low-income, first-generation college-bound high school students to achieve academic excellence, overcome barriers, and succeed in higher education. Through rigorous coursework, personalized tutoring, college readiness workshops, and comprehensive advising, we equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in secondary and postsecondary education. By fostering leadership,  social & cultural enrichment, and career exploration, we cultivate well-rounded scholars who are prepared to navigate and succeed in college, thereby transforming their futures and strengthening their communities. 

 

Who is Eligible to Apply?

• Student must attend one of the following Houston ISD high schools:
  • Austin, Kashmere, Madison, Westbury, Wheatley, Worthing, or Yates.
    
    
• Student must be a current 9th, 10th, or 11th-grade student at one of the target schools listed above.
  
  
• Families must meet federal low-income guidelines and/or the student needs to be a potential first-generation college student (neither parent living with the student has earned a 4-year bachelor's degree).
  
  
• Student must be an active participant and willing to participate in all program components, including:
  • Academic Year: Monthly Saturday sessions at the UHD campus and weekly tutoring.
  • Summer Academy: A daily six-week non-residential summer program at UHD (June–July).
    
    
• Students must have a clear desire to pursue a college degree or certificate after high school graduation.
  
  
• Students must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  
  
• Parents and students must complete the full UHD Upward Bound application process.