Upward Bound Program

Academic guidance, enrichment and personalized mentoring for high school students preparing for college.

Program Overview

Upward Bound provides academic guidance, encouragement and enrichment opportunities to help high school students prepare for college. The program supports students from income-eligible families and students who may be the first in their families to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Upward Bound helps participants strengthen their academic skills, explore career and college pathways and build the confidence needed to reach their educational goals.

The program’s purpose is to increase the rate at which participants complete high school, enroll in college and continue on their path toward earning a degree. Upward Bound offers year-round support that includes advising, tutoring, college preparation activities and opportunities to experience life on a university campus.

Who We Serve

Upward Bound serves high school students in Monterey County and southern Santa Cruz County. The program’s staff work in schools and communities to provide students and families with consistent support throughout the academic year.

Participating Schools

North Monterey County High School
Pajaro Valley High School
Soledad High School
Watsonville High School

What the Program Offers

Upward Bound provides a range of services designed to support academic success and preparation for college, such as:

Academic advising, tutoring and support in key subject areas
Instruction in reading, writing and study skills
Guidance on financial aid and the college application process
Exposure to college campuses, academic programs and cultural events
Assistance with entrance exam preparation and placement
Opportunities for leadership development and personal growth

Summer Residential Program

Each summer, Upward Bound students have the opportunity to participate in a residential experience on a college campus. The program includes academic instruction, study skills development, college preparation activities and community-building experiences designed to help students explore life in a university setting.

Explore the Summer Residential Program

Apply to Upward Bound

Eligibility for Upward Bound includes:

U.S. citizen, permanent resident or undocumented student
GPA of 2.5 or above
Income-eligible and/or first-generation college-bound student

Families may apply online or submit forms through participating schools. Required application materials may include an income verification form, transcripts and copies of documents for upload.

Eligibility Application – English Solicitud de Elegibilidad - Español

Our Guiding Principles

Mascot high fiving a student in front of a bus

Mission

Upward Bound supports academic readiness, self-advocacy and access to resources. The program helps students build skills, confidence and knowledge as they prepare for higher education.

Vision

Upward Bound envisions a community where students pursue higher education with confidence and purpose. The program encourages growth, leadership and a strong sense of possibility.

Values

Upward Bound’s work is guided by values that support student growth, leadership and community. These include student-centeredness, self-authorship, holistic development and mutual respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for Upward Bound?

Eligibility includes students who are income eligible and/or first generation, have a GPA of 2.5 or above, and attend a participating high school

Which schools does Upward Bound serve?

Upward Bound serves North Monterey County High School, Pajaro Valley High School, Soledad High School and Watsonville High School.

Is there a cost to participate in the Upward Bound program?

No. Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program and all services are provided at no cost to students and families.

What documents are required for the application?

Families may be asked to provide an income verification form, academic transcripts and copies of documents needed for upload. The application outlines all required materials.

Does Upward Bound support undocumented students?

Yes. Students who are undocumented may qualify for Upward Bound based on federal eligibility guidelines.

Does my student need to reapply each year?

No. Once accepted, students remain enrolled in Upward Bound each year until high school graduation.

What kinds of support does Upward Bound provide?

Upward Bound offers tutoring, study skills development, subject-specific instruction and guidance that helps students meet their academic goals.

Get in Touch

Families with questions about the Upward Bound program or the application process are welcome to contact our team for support.

Early Outreach and Support Office

The Early Outreach and Support Office provides guidance, resources and information for families and students preparing for college.

Contact the Early Outreach and Support Office

Reach out to our main office for questions about programs, services, eligibility or general support.

831-582-3960

Heather Belveal

Admin Assistant, Upward Bound