Upward Bound (UB) is a family of scholars who are committed to preparing high school students for successful transition to post-secondary institutions. UB strives to empower underrepresented youth and to build a support system which enhances their academic and social experiences.

Upward Bound serves highly motivated first generation, underrepresented high school youth. Students become UB scholars after being selected through an intensive application process. Approximately 125 Lansing-area high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are enrolled so that they may develop the academic and social skills necessary for matriculation in postsecondary education. UB staff will also follow the UB scholars for a period after they enter college. Upward Bound has a 100% graduation rate and a 99% rate for college matriculation.

The UB Summer Academy serves high school students from Flint, Detroit, and Muskegon, in addition to Lansing. UB also offers a Summer Bridge program for rising college freshmen.