Request Information

The National Park College Upward Bound (UB) program is a  federally funded TRIO program granted by the U.S. Department of Education that encourages students in grades 9-12 in Mountain Pine and Hot Springs school districts to complete high school and develop their plans to attend a postsecondary educational program. 

The UB Program lays a strong academic and social foundation and prepares students for college. Beyond the opportunity to participate in a positive, motivating, college-focused environment, members of the UB program family receive intensive year-round academic preparation, tutoring services, and test preparation for the ACT and SAT. Students can participate in college/cultural tours and personal/career development activities and workshops during Saturday Academy sessions and the UB Summer Academy.

There is no cost to students or family, just the investment of time and interest in your future. Students must be demonstrate a willingness to commit to the program. Students can receive a stipend of up to $40 per month based upon the student's commitment and participation, attitude in the program and performance in school.

Eligibility Requirements

To receive free services, a student must:

  • Be enrolled in grades 9-12 at Mountain Pine or Hot Springs High School
  • Have a desire to go to college
  • Must meet at least one of the two criteria below:
    • Be a potential first-generation college student (A first-generation college student is one whose parents or legal guardians have not earned a four-year college degree) OR
    • Meet income guidelines as determined by the U.S. Department of Education

 Academics & ACT Prep

Weekly advising meetings are held at the high schools to cultivate effective social and study skills, time management, leadership and test taking skills. ACT preparation workshops and software are provided at no cost to the participants to help increase test scores.

College Readiness & Planning

Information workshops with topics in scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, admissions requirements, college survival skills and assistance completing the FAFSA are provided yearly. Participants receive college tours of some of the most popular colleges in Arkansas, along with college application waivers.

Social & Cultural Enrichment

Cultural enrichment activities are available consisting of music, art, museums, plays and community service events.

Summer Academy

During the summer component of UB, students participate in a six-week enrichment institute. Students take core-subject classes, receive college and career readiness, program-sponsored career day and college visits.

Bridge Program

Upon high school graduation, eligible seniors may participate in a Summer Bridge program. This program allows students to enroll in up to six hours of college credit courses. Tuition, fees and books are paid in full by the UB program.