Can my child only participate in the summer?
No, Temple Upward Bound (UB) and Temple Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) are not just summer programs. Applicants who are admitted to the program are making a commitment to participate in programming throughout the academic year (fall and spring) and the six-week summer program (July-August) from the time of admission until their high school graduation.
Can my child select when they want to participate; for example, can they participate in fall and summer but then not participate in the spring?
No, keep in mind that in order for your child to reap the full benefits of the program, participants are expected to attend regularly and utilize the free services continuously until their high school graduation.
My child is in the 8th grade. Can they start participating now?
No, though students may apply during the spring of their 8th grade year, they can only participate once they are in high school.
By participating in your program, does my child automatically get accepted to Temple University?
No, the admissions department is completely separate from our program and we have no influence on admissions decisions at Temple University.
Does your program provide scholarships to college?
No, we do not provide scholarships for students to attend college. However, we do compile information on scholarship opportunities and distribute it to students.
We live in Philadelphia but my child attends a school outside of Philadelphia. Can they still participate?
No, the program is open only to students who attend Philadelphia public district and charter high schools and reside in Philadelphia.
My child attends school online, can they participate in the program?
Yes, as long as your child’s school is considered a Philadelphia public district or charter school, they can participate in our programs.
I see that there are two upward bound programs at Temple University. Does my child have to apply to both in order to get into one of the programs?
No, they do not have to apply to both programs. Students only need to apply to one program. During the application review process, if we feel the student might be a better fit for one program over the other, they will be recommended to participate in that program.
My child likes math but not science. Can they still apply to the Math & Science Upward Bound Program?
Yes, your child can still apply to the Upward Bound Math & Science program. The big distinguishing feature between the programs is the science research project with UBMS and the social entrepreneurship and civics curriculum with UB. Most of the other features of the programs are opportunities shared with students in both programs.
I am told that there is an income requirement for your programs. Would it stop my child from participating if I make too much money?
The programs follow a number of guidelines set by the federal government to determine if your child is eligible. Income is not the sole factor in determining whether an applicant can participate, so we encourage any student with a strong desire to earn a college education to submit an application.
My child did not take the PSSA exams in the 8th grade. Can they still apply to your programs?
Yes, your child can still apply to our programs. Please have your child’s current counselor write a note explaining the absence of the test scores. If your child did take another assessment you may submit those scores.
My child is involved in another program on Saturdays. Can they miss Saturdays at your program?
Saturday attendance is a program requirement and students are expected to attend. Any conflicts will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
My child can only make it one weekday. Can they still participate in the program?
Consideration of special circumstances will be handled on a case-by-case basis. However, it is not correct to assume this will be allowed.
The Temple Upward Bound Math & Science program has a science activity requirement. What does that mean?
Students are required to participate in science-related research experiences each year and present this at the conclusion of our summer program.
What grade do you have to be in to apply for Upward Bound?
Students must be current freshmen or sophomores in high school. Students in 8th grade may apply for admission in the spring prior to the start of their freshman year of high school. Students are prepared to participate at the beginning of the summer and are helped throughout the process.
What grades do you need to apply for Upward Bound?
No requirement.
Is this only for African American students?
No.
Can you live outside of Philadelphia and attend Upward Bound?
No.
What is the cost for Upward Bound?
There is no cost. The program is funded by the US Department of Education and is free to participating students.
If I do not want to go to college, can I still be a part of Upward Bound?
No. The program is meant for students who have a goal of attending college.
What will I have to do in Upward Bound?
You must commit to taking action to ensure your success in high school and preparation for success in college. Free programming will be provided to this end, including college tours, tutorials, workshops, career awareness events, SAT & ACT prep, enrichment classes, service projects, cultural trips, personal development activities and much more.
Regular attendance is required and includes: two weekdays (Tuesdays & Thursdays) and all designated Saturdays during the academic year (typically two per month); participation in the six-week summer program which includes a full day of classes Monday - Friday. Completion of projects and activities to build skills, awareness and readiness for college will also be required.
When does Upward Bound meet?
- Saturday hours: 9:00am-3:00pm.
- Participants must attend Tuesday & Thursday weekday sessions (3:30-5:30pm) and all designated Saturdays.
If I am admitted to the Temple Upward Bound program, can I transfer into another Upward Bound?
Yes. In cases where you move outside the target area and it would be more convenient to transfer to another project, the new project may contact us for your records. However, admission to another UB project is not guaranteed and will be based on availability.
Do you need to reapply each year to participate?
No, once accepted into the program, you do not need to reapply. However, participants need to commit to remaining actively involved in programming until their high school graduation.
Can I pay to participate in Upward Bound/Math and Science Upward Bound?
No.
If a parent has a degree may I still participate?
Participants must meet at least one of the eligibility guidelines as outlined in Federal regulations for TRiO programs: Be a potential first-generation college student, meet Federal TRiO Income guidelines, or be at Academic Risk. Be advised, however, that Federal regulations stipulate that at least 2/3rds of our participants must be the first in their family to complete a bachelor’s degree AND meet Federal TRiO Income Guidelines.
Where can I get an application for Upward Bound/Math and Science Upward Bound?
The application for both programs is available online at this link. Please call 215-204-3636 or email us at ubtemple@temple.edu if you have any questions or concerns.
How do you get accepted into Upward Bound/Math Science Upward Bound?
The admission process has four parts:
- Complete the online application.
- Send in all the supporting documentation.
- Attend an interview with a parent/guardian (by invitation only).
- Attend the designated orientation session (once invited).
What is the difference between Temple Upward Bound and Temple Upward Bound Math & Science?
Participants in Temple UBMS must have a demonstrated interest in a career in a math- or science-related field and complete a science research project.
Participants in both programs receive similar services that are geared towards their interest: tutorials, enrichment classes, college visits, career exploration activities, cultural trips, workshops, etc.
Do you provide transportation to and from your program?
SEPTA passes are provided to assist students with transportation during times when school-issued transpasses cannot be used.
What schools are served by Temple University Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math & Science Programs?
Current target high schools (with priority for acceptance) are:
- Benjamin Franklin High School
- Murrell Dobbins Career and Technical Education High School
- Simon Gratz High School Mastery Charter
- Strawberry Mansion High School
- The U School
However, any student attending a public district or charter high school within the target area of the city of Philadelphia may be considered for participation.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are typically accepted mid-February through April each year. Other application periods may be added as deemed appropriate by the program director.
How can I learn more about what Temple UB and UBMS are up to?
Please follow us on Instagram:
