Become an Upward Bound Student
Application Process
Upward Bound at University of Central Arkansas works with eligible students from five target high schools: Bigelow, Mayflower, Morrilton, Nemo Vista (Center Ridge), and Perryville. Students from these schools who are in the 9th or 10th grade should apply. Students must meet additional eligibility requirements from the US Department of Education. To apply, please download the application from the link below. The application includes student information, parent information, a short autobiographical essay, and faculty recommendations. Also, please submit recent federal tax forms with the application. Staff will also review the student’s grades and test scores. The complete application and tax forms must be submitted before the student can begin the interview process.
2025-2026 Upward Bound Application
The application is 6 pages. Completed applications may be submitted to the high school counselor or the Upward Bound tutor at the target school. They may also be mailed to the office.
Mail Application to:
UCA Upward Bound
201 Donaghey Ave.
Main Hall Suite 05
Conway, AR 72035
Interview Process
Depending on the timing of the application, Upward Bound staff will interview the student at either the high school or the Upward Bound office on the UCA campus. This is an informal interview to help staff get to know the student. After the student interview, staff will interview the parents or guardians on the phone (or at the Upward Bound office). After the interview process is complete, staff will review the application, grades, and test scores. If the student is accepted, they will begin the probationary commitment period.
Probation/Commitment Period
All Upward Bound students must complete a 60-day probationary commitment period. During this time, the student must attend all UB activities including tutoring and Saturday Academies. If the student is admitted in the summer, they must attend a 2-week probationary commitment period during the Summer Academy. The only excused absences are school activities. Students will earn stipends during this period but cannot collect them until they complete the probation. After 60 days of good attendance and behavior, students will become a full Upward Bound member. If good attendance or behavior is not maintained (or the student decides not to participate), all stipends will be forfeited.
How much will it cost?
There is no financial cost to students or their families. It will only cost the investment of time and enthusiasm for your future. Upward Bound is 100% federally-funded by the U.S. Department of Education at an average annual cost of $309,505. A total of fifty-eight students from five target schools are served each year.
**Non-Discriminatory Statement: Upward Bound does not discriminate on the basis of color, race, sex, handicap, or national origin.