What is Upward Bound?
Upward Bound generates the skills, motivation, and preparation necessary for high school students to successfully complete secondary education, enroll in postsecondary education, and persist through college graduation. Upward Bound is supplemental, not remedial. We enhance, rather than replace, regular school services. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, GateWay Community College proudly partners with North High School and Camelback High School in Phoenix.
Requirements
Eligibility
This program is federally funded and offered at no cost to eligible high school students who meet the following criteria:
- Attend North High School or Camelback High School.
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible permanent resident.
- Demonstrate academic need and potential for postsecondary success.
- Be from a low-income background and/or be a potential first-generation college student (neither parent/guardian holds a four-year degree).
- Typically recruited between ages 13-19 (entering as freshmen or sophomores).
Core Program Structure & Services
Academic Year Component
- Weekly Services & Tutoring: Academic instruction and tutoring to keep coursework strong.
- College Planning & Advising: Course selection guidance, admissions support, and personal development.
- Financial Literacy & FAFSA: Dedicated financial literacy workshops and step-by-step FAFSA application assistance.
- Progress Monitoring: Regular academic tracking and mentoring.
Summer Component (Minimum 6 Weeks)
- College Simulation Experience: On campus immersion experiencing college life and academic rigor.
- Academic Instruction & Enrichment: Core subject development, cultural activities, and potential Summer Bridge opportunities.
- College Tours: Exposure to higher education options through in-state and out-of-state college visits.
- Participant Stipends: Students earn stipends during both the academic year and summer program upon active participation.