TUTORING
Tutoring services are available for subjects taught in high school which are integral to the core curriculum for college preparation (i.e., English, math, and science). In-person, after-school tutoring is provided at the target high schools by an Upward Bound tutor. Upward Bound tutors are high school teachers or upper-level UCA students. Students may attend two hours of tutoring a week. During this time, students can receive one-on-one help with homework and/or work in small groups with other participants. There are also many opportunities for students to receive online tutoring and even expand content areas to ACT prep, financial literacy, and more.
SATURDAY ACADEMIES
Students meet on the campus of UCA one Saturday each month during the academic year. The Saturday sessions are approximately eight hours in duration. Sessions vary but include: speakers covering career exploration and academic fields, departmental tours, workshops regarding scholarships and financial aid, personal development sessions (study skills, learning styles, time management, stress management, interest and abilities inventories, college life), academic enrichment field trips (museums, plays, musicals), college visits, and/or community service activities (earn volunteer hours toward graduation requirement). Saturday Academies are designed to enhance students’ learning in an interactive and fun setting.
ACADEMIC ADVISING/ONE-ON-ONE’S
Academic advising is another major component of Upward Bound at University of Central Arkansas. Students participate in a systematic career and college planning program designed to assist them in exploring career options and preparing for college. UB staff will visit students individually at their high schools during the academic year to assist students with issues and concerns as well as provide college and career planning services and academic advice. Each student receives an individual Educational Action Plan (EAP) which outlines their academic goals for the semester, provides remedies for academic problems, and gives feedback for improvement in academic performance. EAPs are monitored and discussed with each student three times a year. Discussions will also include the college admissions process, financial aid, scholarships and degree programs.
ACT PREPARATION
ACT scores are very important for students in determining financial resources to attend college. Earning a high ACT score can create great opportunities for a student. The goal for ACT Prep classes at Upward Bound is to better prepare students to take the ACT by learning the test, practicing methodologies, and reviewing weaker content areas. These classes are provided online throughout the academic year or in-person during Summer Academy.
SUMMER ACADEMY
The Summer Academy is an intensive six week session during which students 
live on campus for five weeks followed by a week-long cultural enrichment trip. During the first five weeks, students will experience college life first-hand by living in residence halls, eating in the cafeteria, and taking classes in college classrooms and labs. These classes are not for high school or college credit but are meant to prepare students for their high school curriculum. Courses provided include science, math, literature, reading, writing, and foreign language. Electives are also offered which may include PE, art. drama, or robotics. The residence hall staff (composed of upper-level undergraduate and/or graduate students) provides supervision and support for the students. The staff also serves as academic tutors and mentors. Students are also involved in personal development activities and workshops. In addition, students participate in cultural events, academic programs, career skill-building and exploration, and social activities. The summer component is designed to simulate a college experience for UB participants. In their College 101 class, rising seniors learn about college life, self-assessment and awareness, learning strategies and styles, and setting college and career goals.
WORK STUDY
Upward Bound has received grant funds to offer work study opportunities for students during the summer. Several departments on the UCA campus participate in the work study program. Students tour departments on campus and learn about the functions of each department as well as career options within the department. Students participating in their second Summer Academy are individually placed in departments for a “job shadowing” experience where available.
END OF SUMMER TRIP
An educational summer trip will be planned to give UB participants additional educational, social, and cultural experiences. Students earn the summer trip by participating in the Summer Academy and performing well in their classes. Past trips have included Memphis, St. Louis, Atlanta, Washington, DC, Branson, San Antonio, Chicago, Denver/Colorado Springs, New Orleans, and more!
BRIDGE PROGRAM
Eligible UB seniors have the opportunity to participate in the Bridge 
program where they can earn 6 hours of college credit during the summer after graduation. Eligible students have been active in the program for 3-4 years, maintained at least a 2.5 GPA, participated in two full Summer Academies, and have met attendance requirements to Saturday Academies and tutoring. Bridge students must be accepted to UCA for the summer session and be enrolled in the college of their choice for the following fall semester. The Bridge program is a great opportunity for UB students to earn college credit and experience college life with help of UB staff members.