Become a Scholar

Ready to take the next step toward becoming a TUP Scholar?

This page explains the eligibility criteria, the application process, and key deadlines so you know exactly what to do next.

Who we’re looking for

The Upward Project is a competitive, high-impact program designed for students who are ready to challenge themselves and fully invest in their futures. Participation in The Upward Project is not passive - it requires consistent, active engagement, much like adding an additional class to your schedule. Our Scholars attend workshops, complete assignments, and participate in mentorship and career-focused programming throughout their four years of college.

Successful Upward Project Scholars demonstrate the following qualities:

• Stays on top of tasks, follows through, and meets deadlines

• Communicates clearly and effectively, both in writing and speaking

• Takes feedback in stride and uses it to grow

• Takes responsibility for their actions

• Pushes through challenges—both in and out of the classroom

• Knows when to ask for help and uses available resources

• Actively participates, learns, and takes initiative in their community

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for our Scholar program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Identify as a high-achieving high school student

• Come from a low-income household

• Be a first-generation college student in the US

• Be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen, or lawful permanent resident

• Live in the Greater Boston area within a commutable distance to downtown Boston

• Be available for in-person programming in June 2026

• Plan to enroll at a four-year college or university in Fall 2026 with strong financial aid support

Application Process

We’re excited to start welcoming applicants for our 9th Cohort of Scholars!

All applications begin with a nomination from a School-Based Counselor or College Access Advisor. Students who are nominated and meet eligibility criteria will then be invited to apply. If you’re a student interested in becoming part of this transformative community, start a conversation with your school counselor or college access advisor about a nomination.

Step 1 - Nominations

• School-Based Counselors and College Access Advisors begin by filling out the nomination form on our website. TUP will review eligibility and invite qualified students to apply.

Step 2 - ApplicationS Round 1

• Nominators will provide supporting documentation, including transcript, school profile, college letters of recommendation, and complete a Student Strength & Growth Assessment.

• Students invited to Round 1 will be responsible for providing:

  • College list

  • College essay

  • Student Aid report

  • SAT scores (optional)

  • Resume

  • Written responses to prompts about “Why TUP?” and “5-Year Career Plan”

Step 3 - Applications Round 2

• Students selected to advance to Round 2 will submit additional materials including:

  • Video and written responses to questions about “Community” and “Uniqueness”

  • Summer plans, to confirm availability for Summer Intensive programming

  • Behavioral questions

Step 4 - Student Interviews

• Finalists are invited to interview with our team to dive deeper into their college plans, goals, and summer availability.

Application decisions are made on a rolling basis within each cycle. The entire application process generally takes 4-6 weeks.

Best Practices for a Strong Application:

We want to get to know each prospective Scholar in depth. The application process is designed to give students the chance to be creative, share their stories, and highlight their aspirations.

Below are some tips for the application process:

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