Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) is a year round, college preparatory program (TRIO) funded by the Department of Education and sponsored by Fitchburg State University since 2017. The program stresses academic development, serving 60 high school students from Fitchburg and Leominster for the duration of their high school career and beyond. Eligibility is based on first generation college status, family income and academic motivation.
UBMS Application Part 1: Student Information
UBMS Application Part 2: Household Information
UBMS Academic Year
Students are expected to attend our academic sessions during the school year. These sessions offer workshops in English, Math, Science, and test preparation; and an opportunity to receive tutoring assistance from our staffed university tutors. All sessions will be held on the Fitchburg State University campus. Throughout the year we take a variety of field trips to college/university campuses, cultural events, and STEM enrichment activities.
Summer Academy Residential Program
All students are eligible to attend the program's 6-week Summer Academy Residential Program. The program gives students an opportunity to live on the Fitchburg State University campus and experience life as a college student. Students attend academic classes in the morning, participate in STEM enrichment activities in the afternoon, engage in a variety of entertaining workshops in the evening, and attend college visits and cultural trips. The program is FREE to all Upward Bound Math and Science students.
How to Apply
The application process is both rigorous and competitive. Individuals who have been traditionally underrepresented in college, including members of racial and ethnic minorities and the physically challenged, are strongly encouraged to apply.
To be eligible for admission and participation, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be the first generation in their family to complete a 4-year college degree OR come from a moderate income background (as defined by the U.S. Department of Education);
- Demonstrate academic promise. Students need not have stellar academic records. Yet, demonstration of some form of academic success shows that a student has the ability and motivation to succeed in the summer program; and
- Demonstrate college aspirations. Students should be considering pursuing postsecondary education after graduation; and
- Attend one of the programs’ target high schools.
The Upward Bound Program accepts applications from students in grades 9-12 during the fall and winter. Current 8th grade students who wish to start the program in the summer or fall entering their 9th grade year are welcome to apply in the spring.
Interested students may complete their application online:
- UBMS Student Application Part 1: Student Information (to be completed by the student)
- UBMS Student Application Part 2: Household Information (to be completed by the parent/guardian)
Upward Bound staff will review all completed applications for initial eligibility. Students determined to be eligible will be invited to interview with a program staff member. Following the interview, staff will work with the student to request and obtain any remaining documents.
Admission into the programs is based on financial eligibility, academic eligibility, and the personal interview.
- Current students grades 9-11: rolling admission, as space permits
- Current students grade 8: June 15
Target school faculty are encouraged to use our Student Nomination Form to introduce candidates to the program. Our school based staff members will set up meetings with all referred students to provide program information, answer questions, encourage application to the program as appropriate, and help complete application materials as needed.
Meet our Staff
Andrew Pottorff
