What is Upward Bound?

Upward Bound (UB) is a federally funded college preparatory program that offers assistance to low-income and first-generation college-bound students. The focus of Upward Bound is to develop skills needed for a college education. UB is dedicated to helping participating students graduate from high school with a solid foundation (i.e., completion of required coursework and a strong GPA) necessary for entering college. Upward Bound continues to support participants to ensure continued college enrollment and, ultimately, graduation.

The Mills College Upward Bound program has played an integral role in the Oakland Unified School District for the last 45 years and continues to build close relationships with students and their families. Our ultimate goal is to equip students with the skills and motivation necessary for college graduation.

Target Schools

McClymonds High School
2607 Myrtle Street
Oakland, California  94607

Oakland High School
1023 MacArthur Boulevard
Oakland, CA  94610

Oakland Technical High School
4351 Broadway
Oakland, California  94611

Skyline High School
12250 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, CA  94619

Eligibility

In order to be eligible as a Mills College Upward Bound participant, the high school student must meet the following criteria:

• Be first-generation college-bound (neither parent/guardian graduated from a four-year college)
• Meet federal low-income guidelines
• Attend or anticipate attending one of our target high schools