Upward Bound Program

Upward Bound (UB) at Suffolk University is a federally funded program under the Department of Education that seeks to increase college access and educational opportunities for first-generation and/or low-income students. Our focus is on college acceptance and attendance, and all students are supported through graduation from high school. Suffolk University Upward Bound services a total of 65 students from 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade each academic school year.

Program History

Upward Bound provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in their precollege performance and ultimately in their higher education pursuits. Upward Bound serves: high school students from low-income families; and high school students from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor's degree. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education.

Eligibility and Application

To be eligible to participate in Suffolk’s Upward Bound program, you must live in Dorchester or attend one of our target schools (Dorchester Academy or Tech Boston Academy). You must also fall within at least one of the following categories:

  • Income eligible
  • First-generation college attendee (neither parent holds a Bachelor’s degree)
  • High risk for academic failure

You must submit an application [PDF] to be considered for Upward Bound. Select applicants go through an interview process before final program selection are made. If you require assistance with filling out the application, please reach out.

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On Campus? Come Find Us!

Center for Academic Access and Opportunity 
73 Tremont Street, 7th Floor
Boston, MA 02108