At the end of the 2021-2022 academic year

  • 98%

    of UB seniors enrolled in postsecondary education.

The Upward Bound program provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in pre-college performance and ultimately in higher education pursuits.

Upward Bound serves high school students from low-income families and high school students from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rates at which participants enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education.

TRIO Upward Bound program at Iowa State University is 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education with an annual budget of $309,488.

Upward Bound is a college preparatory program for first-generation and/or income-eligible high school students. It helps high school students succeed in their classes, develop life skills, and prepare for their future. 

Upward Bound helps students prepare for college and careers by providing:

  • Specialized instruction in math, reading/writing, science, and world language
  • Tutoring services
  • ACT and SAT prep
  • Career counseling
  • Information on post-secondary education opportunities
  • Assistance in completing admissions and financial aid applications
  • College visits
  • Summer academic program on the Iowa State campus

Upward Bound participants receive a variety of services throughout the school year, offered at target high schools, online, and on the Iowa State University campus. All services are free to participants.

  • Saturday Sessions on the Iowa State University campus (transportation is provided)
    • Homework help and academic support
    • Workshops on topics such as financial aid, completing the FAFSA, money management, study skills, career exploration, and more
    • Lunch in an Iowa State dining hall
  • Monthly meetings with an Upward Bound Advisor at target high schools
  • Workshop sessions with families
  • ACT test prep
  • College visits
  • Monthly cash stipends for meeting participation requirements

The Summer Program is held on the Iowa State campus in June and July. Upward Bound students take classes to help them prepare for the upcoming school year, participate in a variety of activities, and live in the Iowa State residence halls during the week.

Classes are offered in literature, composition, math, laboratory science, and world language, as well as elective classes in the areas of career and social awareness. Although academic preparation is the primary focus of the summer component, there are many recreational activities provided.

On the last day of the academic session, a banquet is held for students and family members. Students are honored for their academic achievements as they present highlights of their summer classes and activities. The summer component concludes with a college and enrichment trip.

All necessary expenses are covered by Upward Bound.