How Can I Apply?

Applications are currently being accepted. Interested students and parents are welcome to call Marilyn Dement or Simone Carnegie in the Upward Bound offices at 281.227.9620 for more information.

What is upward bound? Upward Bound is a college preparatory program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Upward Bound is designed to assist qualifying high school students in developing the skills to enter college and the motivation to succeed in college.

Who is eligible for upward bound?

MacArthur High School students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply for the Upward Bound program. Applicants must meet at least one of the following requirements: (1) be a first-generation college student (neither parent having earned a bachelor's degree); or (2) be a low-income student.

Who is selected?

Once the applicant's basic eligibility is verified, selection of participants will be based upon the student's grades, attendance history, education goals, indicated needs for academic support and counselor and parent recommendations.

What services are provided by upward bound?

• College Tours and Campus Visits
• Academic Advising
• Field Trips to Plays, Museums, Musicals and Symphonies
• Six-week Summer Program
• Career Exploration
• Academic Support
• Tutoring in Math, English, Science and Foreign Language

What is expected by upward bound?

Upward Bound students are expected to attend weekly sessions and a six week summer program, maintain adequate performance in school and participate in all program activities. Parents of Upward Bound students are expected to be active in their student's academic progress by attending a parent orientation and meetings and volunteering with program activities.

What is the cost?

Upward Bound is free of charge for participants. This includes, but is not limited to, tutorials, career and academic counseling, supplemental instruction, six-week summer program, cultural events, educational trips, and awards banquet. Students will also receive a monthly stipend of $40.00 for attending and actively participating in weekly study and skills development sessions during the academic year.

What is the goal of Upward Bound? The ultimate goal of Upward Bound is to assist each participant with successful entrance into and graduation from a college or university of their choice. The Upward Bound staff, along with the MacArthur High School counselors and teachers, are dedicated to providing the highest quality of academic instruction, cultural enrichment, individual tutoring, counseling, and other support services needed to enable participants to graduate high school and to successfully enter and graduate from college.

What type of student is Upward Bound targeted toward?

First and foremost, an Upward Bound participant must have a strong desire to pursue a higher education. They must be willing to commit the time and effort to fulfilling this goal. Secondly, participants must be first-generation college students and/or must meet low-income guidelines stipulated by the U.S. Department of Education.

What is required of Upward Bound participants?

Participants must attend their high school classes, tutoring sessions, Upward Bound activities, a six-week Summer Component, enroll in college preparatory classes, and strive to improve their academic skills. Upward Bound is a four-year commitment to education that continues from the participants acceptance into the program until his/her acceptance into college or university.