Division of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Division of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Division of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Division of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
smiling student wearing cap and gown wearing a first generation sticker

Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science

Prepare to Become a Future Leader

The Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science programs are designed to motivate students to successfully graduate high school, prepare for college admission, and attend the college or university of their choice. Both programs serve first-generation college students or students from low-income families. Students gain the necessary skills to become college graduates and leaders of tomorrow.

More than
285
college acceptances
Over
52
years in operation
More than
66%
received bachelor's degree or higher
Learn More About Upward Bound

Program Services

Information for Scholars & Families

Grad with Parent

Parents & Guardians

We have a commitment to our partner public schools for your student to receive the best college preparation and ultimately college admission.

Meet the Team

Meet the rest of our team

Frequently Asked Questions

The questions below will help you in thinking about issues related to your student's interest in the program. If you can't find the answers to your questions below, please feel free to contact our offices for additional support.

  • To be eligible for Upward Bound, you must:

    • Rising 9th grader through 11th grade
    • Be either first generation to attend college in their family or meet the low-income requirement as defined by the federal government
    • Students who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States
    • Students who have at least a “C” average
    • Students who intend to pursue a college education
    • Students who complete the application, personal statement, and interview process
    • Attend Plainfield, Perth Amboy, or New Brunswick Public Schools

  • Upward Bound is a pre-college program designed to assist and motivate students to successfully graduate from high school and prepare for college. Upward Bound Math-Science provides similar services as the traditional Upward Bound program but is focused on preparing students for majors and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (S.T.E.M.)

  • You can fill out a paper or online application. To get an application, visit your school counselor or contact us via email at upwardbound@echo.rutgers.edu. Applications will open on the first of October each year.

  • Upward Bound and Upward Math-Science at Rutgers–New Brunswick is a year-round project that offers academic year workshops such as SAT/ACT preparation, cultural activities, college tours, college planning, series of specialized courses, STEM experiences, workshops, programs, and a mandatory six-week Summer Institute where students are exposed to college-level classes and student life led by highly trained faculty and staff.

  • One-on-one tutoring sessions are available on Saturdays during the academic year from September to May in Writing/Composition, Mathematics, Science, and SAT prep.

  • Yes, Rutgers Upward Bound & Upward Bound Math Science have social media. Follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook: TRIO Rutgers Upward Bound & Upward Bound Math Science
    • Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok: @RU_UBUBMS

Alumni: We Want to Hear From You

If you are an alumnus of the Rutgers Upward Bound or Upward Bound Math-Science program, we would like to hear what you are up to. Please complete the alumni questionnaire online or contact us by email or by phone at 848-445-3090. We look forward to hearing from you.

Support Upward Bound Scholars

The Rutgers Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science precollege programs need your help. Each day we are transforming lives, one child at a time. Together, we can make an incredible impact on a child's future. Through educational, cultural, and extracurricular initiatives, we provide participants with keys that open doors to a bright future.

Thank you for your support.

Contact Us

Campus Address
Lucy Stone Hall, A316
Livingston Campus
Phone: 848-445-3090
Fax: 732-445-1488
Email: upwardbound@echo.rutgers.edu

Postal Address
Upward Bound & Upward Bound Math-Science
54 Joyce Kilmer Avenue
Lucy Stone Hall, A316
Piscataway, NJ 08854

Office Hours
Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Saturdays 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
2nd & 4th Wednesdays open 8:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

If you would like to visit our offices, please use our online form to make an appointment.

Student walks in front of Lucy Stone Hall on Livingston Campus