Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What’s the difference between Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS) and Upward Bound (UB)?

UBMS participants are interested in completing a four-year degree with a stated interest in math, science or technology. UB participants are interested in completing a four-year degree in any field of study.

Q. What does the student/family have to pay to be in this program? Do they pay for cultural trips and leadership conferences?

Participants and their families do not pay for any of the services of the Upward Bound Programs. The program pays for meals, transportation, lodging, tickets and registration fees for all cultural trips and conferences except for the week-long summer trip, when participants are asked to pay a $50 nonrefundable trip fee. Extra spending money, if desired, is the only thing that participants may need.

Q. If accepted, will a participant have to reapply every year?

No. Once a student is selected for participation in the program, s/he does not reapply each year and will remain in the program until graduation from high school and completion of the Bridge component.

Q. Who determines the income guidelines?

Income guidelines are determined each year by the United States Department of Education.

Q. Are any applicants given special consideration?

Participants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and in addition they must meet the income guidelines or be a first-generation college student.

Q. How will this program help participants get into college?

The primary goal of the Upward Bound Programs is to help students prepare, enter, and successfully complete college (obtain a 4-year bachelor’s degree). This program not only helps to prepare participants academically, but also provides a wealth of information and assistance in the college selection, application, and financial aid processes.

Q. What is a “first-generation college student?”

A “first-generation college student” is a student/participant whose parents or legal guardians with whom they permanently reside have not completed a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Q. What is the “Bridge” component?

The term “Bridge” refers to the metaphorical bridge that links high school to college and provides services for students their senior year and the summer immediately following high school graduation. During the Bridge component, students live on the Crowder College campus for 5 weeks, take college classes, participate in other Bridge activities and attend the cultural trip the 6th week.

Q. What are the responsibilities of parents who have participants in the Upward Bound Programs?

Parents are expected to show their support by encouraging their son or daughter to fully participate and make sure s/he arrives and is picked up on time at the designated locations for activities. Support is also demonstrated by attending the Annual Reception (a Saturday in May) or Junior Night (financial aid and college selection presentation for juniors), Closer-to-College sessions, and other events parents are invited to attend.

Q. What are EAPs?

EAPs are “Educational Action Plans,” which are one-on-one quarterly meetings that Academic Coordinators have with participants to discuss their educational goals, personal goals, grades, and other concerns the student may have.

Q. What is an Academic Coordinator?

An Academic Coordinator is a full-time staff person that serves students from designated schools. S/he is the primary contact person for participants.