Upward Bound Overview

The Upward Bound Program seeks to prepare its participants for college entrance by improving their knowledge in basic academic subjects such as Mathematics, English, Science, Reading, Foreign Language (French and/or Spanish).  Group and individual counseling sessions are provided to assist in improving participants self image and self- confidence. For additional information regarding the Upward Bound Program, click here to view an informational slideshow.

The Upward Bound Program at Alcorn State University is a pre-college preparatory program funded by the U.S. Department of Education.   The program is designed to motivate underachieving students by developing their basic skills to enable them to complete high school and make a successful transition into postsecondary education. 

Participants must be enrolled in high schools from Adams, Claiborne, Jefferson and Wilkinson Counties, low income and/or first generation college student and who has been promoted to the 9^th and 10^th grade with an accumulated average of “C” or below.

Two-thirds of the ASU Upward Bound participants must meet income criteria and must be first generation college students. One-third of the students may be either low-income, first generation college students, or physically handicapped. All participants must be citizens of the United States or permanent residents. All students must have the potential for success in post-secondary school but must also have need for academic support and/or assistance to assure entrance into and success in college. First generation college students are those neither of whose parents have completed a bachelor's degree. 

During the Academic Year, Enrichment classes are held on Saturdays and offer special work in Mathematics, Reading, English Spanish, and Word Processing. The program also offers tutoring and provides students with access to a computer lab. Counseling is provided in the areas of academics, career exploration, and personal needs. Participants who are seniors in high school are assisted with the college admissions process. This includes the completion of applications for admission and financial aid.  Students have access to many of the Alcorn State University’s facilities which includes the Library for studying.

During the summer students must participate in a six-week residential program. Students live on campus in supervised residence halls and take part in academic, enrichment, and recreational activities. Students will be able to go home on scheduled weekends. The summer program assists students in obtaining the skills and motivation necessary to succeed in post-secondary school. Students attend lectures, classes, and field trips designed to meet the goals of the program. Participants who have graduated from high school are enrolled in our Bridge Program which consists of six hours of college courses at no cost. After the completion, the students has completed his participation in the Upward Bound Program. 

There is no cost to the student.  The program provides room and board, books, and instructional materials during the summer and/or academic phase.  Also, each student receives a stipends for active, regular participation during the Academic Phase on Saturdays and weekly during the six-weeks Summer Phase. 

New participants are recruited through the high school counseling offices, parents, community, and staff.  Students may obtain applications from their high school counselors or by writing the Upward Bound Office at Alcorn State University. Completed applications must be returned by announced deadlines. Students will soon be able to fill the applications online on this web site. No Student will be denied admission to Upward Bound because of religion, race, ethnic or national origin, sex, or physical handicap.