Upward Bound Programs

Upward Bound was developed as a result of the Economic Opportunity Act (1964). It is one of several federally funded programs under Title IV of the Higher Education Act (HEA). Through intensive academic support and exposure to the college-going experience, Upward Bound prepares District of Columbia and Prince Georges County high school students to enter and succeed in higher education. The program is year-round for a maximum of four years per student.

Academic Year Activities

• Bridge Academy and Upward Bound Mathematics & Science (UBMS) offers students 20 plus weeks of individualized tutoring and instruction in core subjects during each school year.  Weekly instruction occurs during Saturday Academy, which is held on the Howard University campus and is organized based upon grade level and individual academic needs.  These sessions also utilize project-based learning to capture student interest—applying classroom knowledge to interesting and relevant, real-world problems.

• During the academic year students also receive academic advising and participate in weekly workshops, which combine to supply them with the skills and information needed to prepare for, apply to, and succeed in college—including effective study skills, SAT and ACT preparation, the college admissions process, as well as financial literacy and student aid.

• College tours and a variety of other activities are also offered to connect students to valuable cultural, educational, and career-focused events. 

Summer Academy

• During the summer, Upward Bound students live on Howard’s campus and receive academic instruction for up to six weeks in subjects the students are enrolled in for the upcoming school year.  In addition, students are exposed to individual and group counseling with our trained counselors.

• During group counseling students will explore many topics pertaining to careers, majors, and financial aid. In individual counseling students will have the ability to sit down one on one with their counselors and set a specific plan for them going forward to reach their post-secondary goals. 

How to Apply:

To qualify, students must be from a low-income and/or first-generation background and in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade at the time of their application.  Classic Upward Bound students are recruited from Cardozo, Coolidge, Dunbar and Roosevelt. Upward Bound Mathematics and Science students are recruited from Bladensburg, Central, Coolidge, Dunbar, Fairmount Heights and Northwestern. If you are interested in applying please complete a preliminary application.

Contact the Upward Bound office at (202) 806-5132 if you have questions or need further assistance.