The Northern State University TRIO Upward Bound Program is a federally-funded college preparatory program for high school students in Northeastern South Dakota. The program offers academic support for potential first-generation college students, as well as income-eligible students. The program is designed to provide students with the motivation and skills needed to successfully transition from high school to college and go on to complete their college education. All Upward Bound program activities and services are free to students enrolled in the program.

TRIO Application

TRIO Upward Bound offers eligible students assistance with:

• Academic and career advising
• ACT preparation
• Budget tips, as well as discussions on how to save for college
• Financial aid and scholarship assistance
• College tours
• Service opportunities
• Monthly stipends for participating in the program
• Opportunities to earn free college credit during the student's "bridge year"
• An all-expense paid summer program

During Upward Bound’s summer program, students attend classes in mathematics, laboratory sciences, composition, literature, and foreign languages. 

School Year Program

During the school year, students will meet at their respective schools with UB staff twice per month. Students are required to meet the following criteria to be considered an active participant in the Upward Bound Program and to earn their monthly stipend:

• Maintain good attendance at school, as well as at the bi-weekly UB meetings.
• Stay in good academic standing (2.5+ GPA). OR be actively working on improving academic standing.
• Work with Upward Bound staff to fulfill academic needs.
• Participate in meeting discussions and complete assigned homework (when applicable).

Summer Program

• Five weeks’ free room and board on Northern's campus.
• One week virtual orientation in advance of the academic year.
• Educational instruction in math, science, reading, writing, and foreign language.
• Individual advising and tutoring.
• Hands-on learning.
• Free college visits and educational adventures in cities such as Minneapolis, Chicago, Kansas City and Denver (destinations differ annually).
• Potential to earn high school AND college credit.
• Weekly stipend.

Bridge Program

Qualified graduating Upward Bound seniors who have attended the summer program are eligible to earn college credit! Enroll at NSU for a summer class, and Upward Bound picks up the tab for room, board, tuition and books.

Who is Eligible to Participate

The Upward Bound Program is available to high school students (grades 9-12) enrolled at one of South Dakota schools served by the NSU UB program (Aberdeen Central, Frederick, Langford, Waubay, Webster, Wilmot, or Sisseton High Schools.

Student is from a family that meets the federal TRIO program income level, as determined by the Department of Education.

Student is a potential first-generation college student (neither parent has completed a four-year college degree).

How to Apply

If students meet the necessary requirements for admission, and express a desire to graduate with a college degree, then they are strongly encouraged to apply. There are a few ways to get involved with the Upward Bound program:

• Talk with a school counselor and ask about how to apply. 
• Contact either Jennie Thompson, Marcus Robinson, or Tabitha DeVoss (contact info on the back of brochure).
• Stop by one of the meetings at your school to see what it's all about.

If you are ready to apply today, submit an application!

Apply Today!

For more information, reach out to Jennie Thompson, Director of TRIO Upward Bound at 605-626-3299 or jennie.thompson@northern.edu; or stop by Mewaldt-Jensen 103-104.