Upward Bound Program

General Information
The Upward Bound Program is part of the federal TRiO programs, which are educational opportunity outreach programs. TRiO programs are designed to motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This includes outreach and support programs targeted to serve and assist low-income, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post baccalaureate programs.

Since 1965, The Ohio State University Upward Bound Program has been instrumental in helping Columbus City high school students achieve their goals. A program federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Upward Bound offers students the opportunity to excel in not only high school, but also in college and beyond. Students can apply and be accepted into the program at the end of their eighth grade year thru their eleventh grade year in high school. The Upward Bound Program lays a strong academic and social foundation and prepares students for college.
Throughout the academic year and summer component, mathematics, science, language arts, and foreign language classes are taught and provide academic enrichment for all program participants. Additionally, students take an enrichment course that focuses on topics such as financial aid, scholarships, resume writing, choosing a college major and/or career, ACT/SAT preparation, and study skills. This enrichment course, as well as various cultural, educational, and recreational program-sponsored activities also gives focus to building life skills such as relationship building, leadership, communication, and etiquette.
During the summer component of Upward Bound, students participate in a six-week enrichment institute. During these six weeks, students take core-subject classes, electives, attend program-sponsored career day and college fair events, and college visits. Eligible graduating seniors participate in the Upward Bound Bridge Program which affords them the opportunity to take actual college courses at The Ohio State University for six (6) hours of transferrable college credit. The Upward Bound Program is a great opportunity for young people to enhance their academic abilities, set short-term and long-term goals, and go to college!

Contact Information
OSU Upward Bound Program
Student Academic Services Building, 3rd floor
281 West Lane Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210
Phone: 614-292-2344
Fax: 614-292-7889
upwardbound@osu.edu

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm