Upward Bound is a part of the Trio family of federally-funded programs. The program's primary mission is to assist college-bound high school students develop the skills required to graduate from college. Upward Bound along with it's sibling programs are funded through the Higher Education Act of 1965. Please visit the Department of Education's website for a more thorough explanation of TRIO. In addition, Upward Bound works in conjunction with The Council for Opportunity in Education, a non-profit organization established to assist individuals achieve their post-secondary educational goals.

Upward Bound has existed at the University of Virginia since 1968. The program's first director was Stephen Waters. Currently Upward Bound's director is Leah Wilson-Puryear. The program's main offices are located on the second floor of Minor Hall. Upward Bound serves individuals from twelve local high schools (Albemarle, Buckingham, Charlottesville, Cumberland, Fluvanna, Louisa, Monticello, Nelson, Orange, Waynesboro, Western Albemarle, and William Monroe). Participants attend academic sessions on various Saturdays throughout the school year. During the summer, particiapnts reside on-grounds for five weeks; it is designed to provide student's with a simulated college experience.