Group of young students smiling with an instructor

Upward Bound Program

The Northern Illinois University Upward Bound program helps students from Rockford and Aurora, Illinois gain the academic skills and motivation to complete high school, gain admission to and complete a post-secondary education program. Upward Bound courses, workshops, tutoring, seminars and other activities are designed to address students’ specific needs.

The program has two parts:

  • Twenty-six week academic year component
  • Six-week summer residential program

Students and parents are invited to check out our Student Resources page for more information, helpful links and answers to frequently asked questions.

Academic Year Component

During the academic year NIU Upward Bound program services take place in the target cities after school. The program offers weekly classes and tutoring to help high school students succeed. Students in the program visit various colleges and universities through campus visits and trips to college fairs during their four years of participation.

High school seniors will be guided in the college admissions process and help is provided to secure financial aid.

Other activities include leadership development conferences, financial literacy and career exploration workshops, field trips and cultural events.

Summer Residential Program

Each year, from mid-June through July, Upward Bound students participate in our six-week residential program on the NIU campus in DeKalb, Illinois.

Room and board are provided in an NIU residence hall where students have a firsthand living and learning experience. The focus is on academics while introducing students to a college environment.

Students attend an English class, a mathematics class, a laboratory science class and foreign language class. Students also will be introduced to helpful study and learning techniques, along with daily tutoring and monitored homework and study sessions.

Elective courses, workshops, seminars, sports, college visits and cultural activities round out the residential experience.

Application and Eligibility

Students are required to fill out an application (.DOCX) to participate in NIU’s Upward Bound program, which is offered at no cost.

Grades 9-12 students who attend Jefferson, Guilford, Auburn or East High School in Rockford, or West or East High School in Aurora are eligible.

When considering students for this program, we will review their:

  • School records, grades, teacher recommendations, achievements and attendance records
  • Written application, including a personal statement
  • Personal interview and review by the director and staff

Contact Us

Felicia R. Bohanon
Executive Director
fbohanon@niu.edu

Upward Bound
Carol Lattimore-Hutton
Program Coordinator
clattimorehutton1@niu.edu