Upward Bound
Our Program
Academic Year Services
Students have access to both virtual and in person experiences in the program, including the opportunity to meet on Penn’s campus every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. throughout the school year, beginning in October and ending in April. Upward Bound requires all students to make a commitment to participate in every activity provided by the program. These activities are designed to develop skills necessary for success in college. The program concentrates on developing students’ digital literacy, critical thinking, reading, writing, and math skills for college success.
In addition, the Upward Bound Program offers a variety of virtual and in person co-curricular activities, including community service, academic competitions, content tutoring, mentoring, cultural enrichment programs, and other college preparatory workshops. The academic year component provides students with a comprehensive support system that assists them in achieving academic excellence and inspires lifelong learning relevant to a changing global society.
Summer Academy
Our goal at the UB Summer Academy is to help guide you on your path to college by strengthening your academic skills, exploring the various career and college pathways that are available to you, and building a community in the UB family. By participating in the UB Summer Academy, you will leave feeling more confident about your next steps in the college process!
Summer Activities Dates
Conference Week
2025 Dates – 6/16-6/20 (tentative)
Conference Week is an opportunity for you to meet your tutor counselors and instructors, choose from a wide range of elective courses to enroll in, and bond with your fellow classmates. With a variety of fun activities and skill-building workshops, Conference Week is a great way to kickoff the start of an eventful summer at UB University!
Upward Bound University
2025 Dates – Summer Academy: 6/23-7/18; out-of-state trip: 7/21-7/25 (tentative)
UB Summer Academy, referred to as ‘UB University,’ is a college simulation experience where you live on-campus in Penn’s college houses. You will take rigorous classes and electives, explore the campus, build community, and go on weekly local field trips. The Summer Academy ends with a week-long out-of-state college tour!
Rise Up Program
2025 Dates – 6/23-7/18 (tentative)
The Rise Up program is designed for UB graduating seniors as a college orientation and transition program. By the end of the summer, you will leave Upward Bound feeling better equipped to successfully navigate your college/career path!
