Empowering High School Students for College Success
Upward Bound is a FREE college preparatory program designed to help eligible high school students achieve their dream of attending college. We provide academic support, college prep workshops, field trips, and a summer residential program—all at no cost to students.
Why Upward Bound?
The FREE TRIO Upward Bound at Coalinga College is your stepping stone to achieving your college dreams. Designed for high school students who aspire for more, our program offers the guidance, support, and resources you need to navigate the journey from high school to college seamlessly.
Get Ready for College
- Dive into monthly workshops that shine a light on college life and career possibilities.
- Get personalized advice on the college admission process, application essays, finding scholarships, and choosing a college.
- Explore future career paths that align with your interests and talents.
Earn College Credit
- Take college-level courses while in high school
- Save money and get ahead by earning credits that transfer to future colleges
- Develop critical skills like time management and independent study
Experience College Life
- Spend six weeks living the college life on our campus with our residential summer program
- Take classes, join activities, and experience college life firsthand
- Preview college life and all its perks
Who may apply?
Students wishing to apply must meet the following 5 criteria:
- Be a U.S Citizen, permanent resident, or in the U.S. for other than a temporary reason and provide evidence of their intent to become a permanent resident.
- Be from a low-income family (as determined by TAXABLE income) AND/OR be a potential first- generation college student (neither parent has a 4-year degree).
- Have a GPA of 2.5 or higher (math, English, science, history, and foreign language).
- Be enrolled in the 9th, 10th,11th, or 12th grade, AND attend one of the following high schools: Coalinga, Mendota, Tranquillity, and Firebaugh
- Be willing and able to participate in all scheduled program services and activities, unless a qualifying school activity prevents one from doing so. This includes attending the after-school workshops during the school year and the six-week residential program each summer.
Step 1: Request a recommendation from your school counselor.
You may request a recommendation from your high school counselor or contact the Upward
Bound academic advisor at the info below.
Step 2: Complete the application with parent income info
Please be prepared to fill out the entire application along with your parent’s income
information. Only completed applications will be considered.
Step 3: Submit and meet with staff if selected
High School Partners
