Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. Why are Upward Bound target schools limited to 4? Our high school is not listed, may I still be considered?
  2. What do Upward Bound Students Do?
  3. How do I apply?
  4. Do students receive high school or college credit for participation?
  5. What activities are during the academic year?
  6. What is the Summer Program?
  7. What does it cost to participate in Upward Bound
  8. Will Upward Bound pay for the student's college education?

Why are Upward Bound target schools limited to 4? Our high school is not listed, may I still be considered?

The current contract with the United States Department of Education allows funding for the Program to serve four high schools. The grant that was submitted for funding, documented the high level of need for project services in those schools and communities.

The four target high schools are:

in Sioux Falls - Washington High School
in Sioux Falls - Roosevelt High School
in Flandreau - Flandreau Indian School
in Flandreau - Flandreau High School

Unfortunately, no other schools may be added and students who do not attend those schools may not be considered.

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What do Upward Bound Students Do?

No other program in the area provides such comprehensive services to enrolled high school students. Upward Bound recognizes that every student is unique and uses an individualized approach in working with them.

The commitment from the program is a lengthy one – starting at the time the student enters the program throughout high school and college. The Upward Bound staff work with students in small groups and privately to address their individual needs. In addition, they help students to develop their academic potential, learn from others and their cultures, and identify and meet realistic goals. Cultural and social events are held to expose the students to new and different positive experiences. South Dakota State University students, graduates, and staff serve as role models by leading workshops, teaching, and conducting seminars. Upward Bound also has a strong working relationship with many of the local colleges and universities, a network that supports the success of our graduates.
 

Each Upward Bound student makes a commitment to:

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How do I apply?

Applications are not considered complete without the following documents:

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Do students receive high school or college credit for participation?

All target high schools provide .5 an elective credit to those students who successfully complete the summer experience.
High school graduates who attend the Upward Bound Summer Bridge program the summer following their graduation, attend college classes during the summer program with the possibility of earning up to 7 college credits, at NO COST to the students!

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What activities are during the academic year?

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What is the Summer Program?

The six week Summer Academic Program is held on the campus of South Dakota State University.  The SDSU Upward Bound program believes in the philosophy of the residential experience for its students.  Upward Bound challenges its students to develop their potential both academically and socially.  Upward Bound staff members live in the residence halls with the students to provide a safe, friendly, study-conducive atmosphere.  As a result, students become accustomed to the "college experience" in a way that is well monitored, structured, and high in expectations. Upward Bound provides the student with a furnished room, meals, classes, and sponsored activities at no cost to the student or families.

Students are enrolled in classes that will prepare them for their next year in high school.  Graduates are enrolled in college  classes, paid for by Upward Bound, and can earn up to 7 credits to transfer to their choice of institution.

Evenings and weekends include cultural, educational, and social activities, both on, and off of campus.  Prior summers have included attending plays, Canaries baseball game, museum tours, college tours, Upward Bound Olympics, computer free-time, athletic activities, reading, poetry writing, movies, and family picnic, and talent show.
 

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What does it cost to participate in Upward Bound?

There is no charge for the students to participate in all activities throughout the academic year and summer program.

Transportation is provided for Saturday Programs and activities throughout the Summer Academic Program.

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Will Upward Bound pay for the student's college education?

No, but Upward Bound staff will provide advice and guidance for the student – and the family – to apply for federal, state, and college aid. A financial aid advising program is scheduled each year, information about scholarship opportunities is provided regularly, and waivers are provided as appropriate for related fees. In addition, Upward Bound staff work closely with the students and families throughout the college application and decision-making process as a means of facilitating the process and responding to questions about aid.
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Revised: 12/14/06.