There are currently 681 programs in operation throughout the United States. There are three components of the Upward Bound Program. All components are free to Upward Bound students. The academic year component provides students with weekly tutoring sessions after school at their high school. Tutoring sessions are held twice a week throughout the school year.
Students also participate in various social, academic and cultural group activities.
During the summer component students live at the University of Southern Colorado for six weeks in the dorms and participate in a variety of academic, social, and cultural activities. Room, board, and activities are provided to participants free of charge. The bridge component offers high school seniors involved in the program a chance to earn six college credits at no cost.