Upward Bound EC/MLC is a college-preparatory program designed to serve low-income and/or potential first-generation college students who are currently in grades 9-12.

The program is committed to developing a year-round education program which will excite, motivate and prepare a selected 150 high school students in the program’s target areas. The quality services provided will prepare the students for successful high school completion and entrance into post-secondary programs. 

Upward Bound EC/MLC participants receive free tutorial services in college prep courses and are eligible to receive waivers for the ACT/SAT test.

Upward Bound EC/BEM participants benefit from:

• Tutorial assistance in science, math, language arts and a foreign language
• Opportunities to participate in hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) projects
• Lessons on how to code and increase computer skills 
• SAT support
• Visits to colleges and universities
• Cultural workshops and field trips
• Coaching from a caring adult
• Help completing college applications, including financial aid and scholarship applications
• Opportunities to explore careers,  visit employer locations and meet top professionals in the community
• Six week non-residential summer program, workshops and team building
• Free transportation to and from all program activities
• Stipends and awards

Who is eligible to apply?

Students who:

• Attend, or plan to attend, Illinois School Districts 189 (East St. Louis), 188 (Brooklyn), 187 (Cahokia), and 3 (Venice)
• At the time of initial selection, are in grades 9-12 and between the ages of 13-19
• Are from a low-income family and will be the first in their family to pursue a college education
• Require academic support for pursuing education beyond high school
• 3.0 or higher GPA