Upward Bound is a federally funded program for high school students in Prescott, AZ, and the surrounding area who are committed to preparing for a postsecondary (college) education.

The Upward Bound program is designed to give participants — who attend for free — the tools, skills and knowledge to be successful in high school and at the university level. Students enrolled in Upward Bound are four times more likely to attend college.

Who Is Eligible?

  • Students in the ninth, 10th or 11th grade at Tri-City College Prep School, Chino Valley High School, Mayer High School, Yavapai County High School and Bradshaw Mountain High School
  • First generation to attend college (i.e., parents/guardians do not have a four-year degree)
  • Families who meet federal guidelines for financial eligibility

How Much Does It Cost?

Upward Bound is free to all participants and includes:

  • Summer Embry-Riddle courses
  • Summer housing (meals included)
  • Transportation during summer program
  • Field trips
  • SAT/ACT waivers
  • Tutoring during summer program
  • Social and cultural activities
  • Books for summer program
  • End-of-summer trip
  • Upward Bound banquet

What Are the Benefits?

  • Academic support
  • Financial aid information and workshops
  • ACT/SAT prep
  • Free tutoring during summer program
  • Career exploration
  • Field trips
  • College campus visits
  • Cultural activities
  • Community service
  • Tuition-free high school and college-credit courses
  • Stipends for attending weekly meetings and completing academic units

How Do I Apply?

Contact the Upward Bound Academic Coordinator at 928-777-3924

Contact Us

Sheryl Gillum
Director, Upward Bound

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To receive an Eligibility Assessment or Upward Bound Application, or to ask questions about the program, please contact the Prescott Upward Bound Staff.