TRIO Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math & Science

Upward Bound provides students with free academic, college-preparation, career, and personal development opportunities throughout the school year and summer.

Academic Support

• Individualized academic advising and support
• Tutoring and study support
• Academic progress monitoring
• Assistance developing effective study and time-management strategies
• Support with academic goal setting

College Preparation

• College and career advising
• College application assistance
• College and university visits
• Financial aid and scholarship guidance
• Support navigating the college-going process
• Assistance with college planning and preparation

Career Exploration

• Career exploration activities
• Career assessments and interest exploration
• Career and college workshops
• Opportunities to learn about different education and career pathways

Education Enrichment

• Monthly Saturday Academies
• Educational Workshops
• Academic enrichment activities
• Community building activities
• Educational fields trips and college visits
• Summer educational programming

Student & Family Support

• One-on-one support from Upward Bound staff
• Parent and family workshops
• Resources to help families understand college admissions and financial aid
• Guidance throughout the high school-to-college transition

Students interested in American River College’s Upward Bound programs must meet federal program eligibility requirements and the program’s participation requirements.

Generally, students must:

1. Be enrolled in grades 9-12 at a participating high school.
2. Meet federal eligibility requirements related to financial need and/or first-generation college student status.
3. Demonstrate a desire to pursue education beyond high school.
4. Be committed to participating in program services and activities throughout the academic year.
5. Participate in the program’s summer component.

Because eligibility and available programs services can vary by project, students and families are encouraged to contact the Upward Bound office to learn more.

Upward Bound students are expected to actively participate in the program services and communicate with the program staff throughout the academic year.

Students are encouraged to:

• Attend scheduled program activities and workshops
• Participate in tutoring and academic support when needed
• Maintain regular communication with their program advisor
• Monitor their academic progress and work toward their educational goals
• Participate in college and career preparation activities
• Attend the required summer program
• Communicate with program staff when they need assistance or are unable to attend a required activity

Our goal is to work with students and families to help students remain engaged, supported, and on track toward college.

Step 1: Complete the Application

Students can complete the Upward Bound Application online

Upward Bound Application

Step 2: Application Review

The Upward Bound team reviews application to determine eligibility and program fit.

Step 3: Student & Family Interview

Eligible applicants may be invited to participate in an interview with a program staff member. Parent/guardian participation may also be requested.

Step 4: Program Decision

Students and families will be notified of the program’s admission decision and next steps.

 Submitting an application does not guarantee admission to the program.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

• FAFSA
• Scholarships360
• FastWeb

College Admissions

• org
• Common Application
• CSU admissions
• UC admissions

Assessment and Preparation

• College Board
• Khan Academy
• ACT