About Us
What is Upward Bound?
Upward Bound was created in 1965 by the Higher Education Act and is funded by the U.S. Department of Education.Barton Community College first sponsored the Barton County Upward Bound (BCUB) Program in 1999.  The program prides itself on serving students from diverse backgrounds who aspire to complete a college degree.  Students attending high schools located in Ellinwood, Great Bend and Hoisington work year-round in order to generate the skills and motivation necessary to complete high school and to enter and succeed in a college program.  During the school year we offer weekly content, workshops, tutoring, community service opportunities, cultural events, and college visits. In addition, we host a 6-week residential program in the summer that allows students to experience what being in college is like.
Who is eligible?
Participants must be interested in completing a college degree! 
Students must also attend one of the following schools: Ellinwood High School, Great Bend High School, Hoisington High School.  
We can only accept students in 12th grade in the fall semester.  
All students must either have their family meet income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education or be potential first-generation college students.  We welcome all applications and we can help you discern if you are eligible for our program.
How much does it cost to participate in Upward Bound?
Nothing! All of our services are provided free of charge. Our funding is provided by a federal grant. Also, students have the ability to earn a stipend each semester for attending BCUB sponsored events.
Do I have to attend Barton Community College?
No. Our goal is to help our participants attend the college or university of their choice.
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