At ORS, our Upward Bound Classic (UB) and Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) initiatives focus on empowering students from underserved backgrounds. We recognize their latent potential for excellence in higher education and aim to bridge the gap to their aspirations.

Fueled by grants from the Department of Education, our Upward Bound programs are pivotal in preparing students for their college & career journey. Especially, the UBMS program is tailored to ignite passion and comprehension in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.

Rest assured, our programs receive full funding from the Department of Education. To delve deeper into Upward Bound and other TRiO Programs, explore the Department of Education website.

We’re proud to extend our UB Programs to students at Alvarado, Keene, Lancaster, Rio Vista, Southwest (Fort Worth), and Venus High Schools. Join us in molding the leaders of tomorrow!

Program Services

Success Resources

Participants get access to a treasure trove of resources curated to elevate learning, streamline studies, research colleges, and propel them to new academic heights. Click here to access success resources.

After-School Programs

Our after-school programs offer academic support, career mentoring, college advising, and financial aid counseling to participants to ensure they complete high school and enroll in and complete a post-secondary education program.

College Research & Applications

We assist participants with researching colleges to find the best fit. We assist them in applying for admission to any college, university, or trade/technical school and walk them through the next steps for successful enrollment.

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Financial Aid Assistance

Participants work one-on-one with experienced staff to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and scholarships. Participants also receive financial literacy training and insights into student loans.

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Summer Program

Our programs host a free six-week summer program designed to simulate a college-going experience. Participants will have the opportunity to take a variety of classes focusing on math, laboratory science, composition, literature, and foreign language. Students also recive soft skill training & hands-on-STEM experiences.

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Student Field Trips

Participants have the opportunity to explore and learn as they travel to different locations throughout Texas and the country. Activities include college visits, cultural experiences, STEM hands-on learning, and more. These trips are focused on broadening students’ horizons and discovering new career paths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to participate in Upward Bound Programs?

Eligible participants are students who currently attend one of our target high schools or who live in the service area of the high school. Participants are also those who come from low-income families and from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree.

What does it cost to participate in Upward Bound Programs?

Classic Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science programs are 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education for a period of five years. There is no cost to students or their families to participate. In fact, students who actively participate are eligible for a monthly stipend during both the academic and summer components. There also is no financial cost to the target schools that partner with Opportunity Resource Services.

What services do Upward Bound Programs provide?

Tutorial services for STAAR exams & secondary education courses
Information on postsecondary education
Exposure to college campuses
Information on student financial assistance for postsecondary education
Financial literacy training
Soft skill development
Assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications
Assistance in preparing for college entrance exams
Workshops for the families of participants
Summer college-going simulation program focusing on math, laboratory science, composition, literature, and foreign language.
Personal academic counseling

What schools participate?

Our High School Programs serve students at Alvarado, Keene, Lancaster (Dallas), Rio Vista, Southwest (Fort Worth), and Venus High Schools.

How are Upward Bound Programs structured?

During the academic year, the high school programs provide tutors and academic counselors for an after-school enrichment program at each participating target high school. Periodically throughout the academic year, the programs will host workshops for students and their families, field trips to colleges and universities, and field site visits.

During the summer break, our high school programs host a 6-week Summer Program designed to simulate a college-going experience, focusing on math, laboratory science, composition & literature, and foreign language.

Our high school programs are committed to serving students and their families by providing flexible, customized programming to meet each student’s needs. The goal of the programs is to supplement the activities and programs in which students are already involved. Thus, program staff will make every effort to accommodate each student’s schedule.

How do students apply for the program?

Students can apply in person at the after-school program. Our programs typically meet in the school library or cafeteria.

Please keep in mind that our programs have limited space, and some applicants may be placed on a waiting list.

Who should I contact with questions about the programs?

Please give us a call at (817) 241-4141 and select one of the high school programs from the menu. Our staff will be ready to answer your questions. You can also email your question to info@orstx.org.