Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Veterans Upward Bound

Pride in what you have accomplished...faith in what you may yet achieve!

What is Veterans Upward Bound?

Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) is a FREE program, federally-funded by the U.S. Department of Education. This program is designed to prepare eligible veterans to enter and succeed in a post-secondary education program.

Location

This program will be available at both the Cambridge and Coon Rapids campuses of Anoka-Ramsey Community College.

Eligibility

To qualify for the program veterans must have served on active duty for more than 180 days OR have been discharged due to a service-connected disability. Any part of service has to have occurred after January 1, 1955. Anything other than a dishonorable discharge will be accepted. Also, participants must either be low-income or first-generation college students (neither parent has received a four-year degree).

Curriculum

Curriculum includes preparatory courses in math, English composition and literature, introduction to computers, environmental science, and beginning Spanish.

FAQs

Must I be enrolled at ARCC to take advantage of VUB?
No, you need not be enrolled to participate in VUB. Coursework through this program involves pre-college coursework to PREPARE you for college

Is there any cost to me to participate in VUB?
No cost. Instruction, textbooks, computer-use, as well as classroom space is provided at no cost to eligible veterans.

Is there financial aid available through VUB?
Not directly through VUB, but you may make use of your GI Bill benefits, if you wish. We will also provide counseling regarding scholarships, loans, grants, etc.

What about stipends for VUB program participation?
Stipends can be made available provided that participating veterans attend program classes regularly, and make suitable progress in the program. Participants may earn up to $40.00 monthly.

Does VUB help with job placement?
Not directly, but we can provide career counseling; resume development; and referrals to government and non-profit employment counseling services.

If I am already enrolled in school, can I still participate in VUB?
Probably not-- the purpose of VUB is to PREPARE you for post-secondary education. There is a program through TRIO here at Anoka-Ramsey Community College called Student Support Services which is designed to assist students already enrolled.

How long should I plan to be in VUB before I am ready to move on to post secondary school?
In many ways, that depends upon you. You will be asked to take an assessment test upon acceptance in the program and your academic needs will be determined. The VUB staff will then advise you on how long you should expect to remain in the program and what course work will be of utmost benefit to you. However, your determination to succeed combined with your work ethic will also be vital factors in the rate at which you move forward.