Prepare for college with confidence
For more than 35 years, Trinity University’s Upward Bound program has empowered first-generation and income-eligible high school students to overcome barriers to higher education through academic support, leadership development, and college preparation.
Every student deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education. Upward Bound programs provide fundamental support to their participants in preparation for college. The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in their pre-college coursework in high school and ultimately in their higher education pursuits.
What Students Experience
Throughout the academic year and summer, students participate in experiences designed to prepare them for college success.
Academic Support
Receive tutoring, academic advising, and instruction in core subjects including mathematics, science, literature, writing, and foreign language.
College Preparation
Explore colleges and universities, prepare college applications, complete financial aid forms, and receive guidance throughout the admissions process.
Summer Residential Program
Experience college life by attending classes on Trinity’s campus, participating in hands-on learning, and building lasting friendships while living in a university environment.
Career Exploration
Participate in internships, career advising, financial literacy workshops, and mentorship opportunities with professionals and Trinity faculty.
Facts and Stats
Program Sequence
Year-Round College Preparation
Upward Bound combines a six-week summer experience with year-round academic support, helping students build the skills, confidence, and college knowledge needed for success in higher education.
Summer Session
The summer component is a cornerstone of the Upward Bound experience. Students attend classes on Trinity University’s campus while experiencing the expectations and opportunities of college life.
What You’ll Do
| Academic Learning | College Readiness |
|---|---|
College-level courses in English, mathematics, science, foreign language, and writing | Daily tutorials and ACT/SAT preparation |
Hands-on projects and collaborative learning | College and career exploration |
Leadership and cultural enrichment activities | Elective courses and workshops |
Academic Year
During the school year, students meet regularly with Upward Bound advisers at their high schools and on Trinity’s campus to stay on track academically and prepare for college.
Advising & Planning
Receive individualized guidance to:
- Develop academic plans
- Explore careers and majors
- Apply to colleges
- Complete financial aid and scholarship applications
- Build leadership and life skills
Saturday Academy
Twice each month, students return to Trinity’s campus for:
- Academic courses
- Tutoring
- College seminars
- ACT/SAT preparation
- Leadership development
Campus Resources
As an Upward Bound participant, you’ll have access to:
- University library
- Technology labs
- Recreation facilities
- Campus lectures and events
Meet Your Mentors
Meet the educators, advisers, and mentors who guide Upward Bound students through every step of their college preparation journey.
Upward Bound Scholarship
Trinity offers a one-time, $3,000 Upward Bound Scholarship to entering first-year undergraduate students who participated in an Upward Bound program. To qualify, applicants must simply indicate their Upward Bound membership on their undergraduate application.
Program Eligibility
Participants must meet the following criteria:
Low income based
Qualify as low income according to federal guidelines or potential first-generation college students with neither parent having earned a four year bachelor's degree.
Enrolled in a San Antonio High School
Be a student at:
Committed to excellence
Have the willingness and ability to make the time commitment to participate fully in all that Upward Bound offers from the time of acceptance through high school graduation.
U.S. Citizenship
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Need-Based
Demonstrate academic need for program services.
Apply Now
Ready to take the next step?
Fill out the application packet, or contact the Upward Bound office by email at @email or 210-999-7590 to discuss your interest in the program and receive an application.
Step 1
Application
Complete Application Packet (PDF) which includes:
- Application
- Affidavit
- Questions
Step 2
Two Teach Recommendations
You need to get one recommendation from two of the following: Math, English, Social Studies and Science. Teachers completing the recommendations can be this year's or from a previous year
Step 3
Income tax form
Attach a copy of your parents' most recently filed income tax form (1040A, 1040EZ, 1040)
Step 4
Submit Packet
Return Application Packet (application and income tax information) to the Upward Bound Adviser at your school.
Step 5
Interview
Interviews will be scheduled upon receipt of application packet if it is complete and student qualifies for the Program. All students will be notified of their status regardless.