Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) is a federally funded grant program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, designed to motivate and assist veterans in the development of academic and other requisite skills necessary for acceptance and success in a program of post-secondary education.

Veterans Upward Bound is a college-neutral program, serving a ten county radius.

Our target area includes the following counties:

Conway, Crawford, Faulkner, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Perry, Pope, Sebastian, & Yell

ALT

The mission of Arkansas Tech University Veterans Upward Bound is to empower military veterans in Conway, Crawford, Faulkner, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Perry, Pope, Sebastian, and Yell counties with the skills, confidence, and support necessary to enter, persist, and succeed in postsecondary education—including college, trade schools, technical training programs, and career pathways.

In alignment with Arkansas Tech University’s mission of providing access to opportunity, promoting student success, and serving the communities of Arkansas, VUB is committed to removing barriers, strengthening academic foundations, and offering individualized guidance tailored to the unique needs of each veteran.

Through high-quality instruction, academic skill-building, financial and career literacy, and veteran-centered support services, we help veterans achieve their educational, career, and personal goals—whether they choose a degree, a trade, a certification, or a new professional direction.

For eligibility you must be one of the following:

A U.S. Veteran who served at least 180 days of active duty and was not dishonorably discharged;
or
A member of a reserve component who was called to active duty for 30 days or more;
or
A member of a reserve component who served on active duty in support of a contingency operation on or after September 11, 2001.

AND you must meet at least one of the following:

Meet the low-income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education;
or
Be a potential first-generation college student (neither parent has earned a 4-year degree);
or
Demonstrate academic need;
or
Have a documented disability.

APPLY HERE!

veterans upward bound 2026 monthly training schedule

Month	Training Topic	Focus/Objective
January	Financial Literacy	Budgeting, credit management, understanding VA education benefits, and long-term financial planning.
February	Career Readiness & Resume Development	Translating military experience into civilian terms, resume writing, job searching, and interview skills.
March	Mental Health & Positive Outlets	Stress management, coping strategies, and connecting to counseling or recreational resources.
April	Digigtal Literacy and Online Learining Skills	Using technology effectively for coursework, navigating learning platforms, and online professionalism. Chat GPT.
May	Choose your path: Educational Pathways	Exploring degree options, vocational programs, certifications, and transfer opportunities.
June	Communication and Conflict Resolution	Building effective communication skills, teamwork, and managing academic or workplace challenges.
July	Goal Setting and Motivation	Establishing short- and long-term academic and personal goals; maintaining motivation during breaks.
August	On-Campus & Community Resources Orientation	Highlighting campus offices, veteran support services, tutoring, and community partnerships.
September	Mannaging Time with Family, Work, and Education	Strategies for balance, prioritization, and maintaining well-being during the semester.
October	FAFSA and Financial Aid Application Workshop	Guided assistance with FAFSA submission, understanding aid packages, and maximizing benefits.
November	Resiliency and Time Management	Building perseverance, managing setbacks, and maintaining academic consistency.
December	Reflection and goal review	Updating goals, career and education check-ins, and strategies for sustaining progress during winter break.

Veteran Services

If you’re a veteran, currently serving, or a military-dependent, Arkansas Tech University’s Office of Veteran Services is available to support you throughout your college experience. Once you are enrolled and attending classes, this office becomes your primary resource for education benefits, guidance, and community—while Veterans Upward Bound assists with enrollment, Veteran Services helps you succeed as a student. Located in the Doc Bryan Student Services Center, Room 104, the office provides assistance with military education benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Montgomery GI Bill®, Dependents’ Educational Assistance, Selected Reserve benefits, and Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E). Staff can help answer eligibility questions, guide you through paperwork, and offer a welcoming space for support and connection. Students also have access to the Veteran’s Lounge, a comfortable place to study, relax, or meet fellow veterans. At ATU, you’ll find a community that understands the unique challenges faced by military-affiliated students and is committed to making your transition to college as smooth as possible. For more information or assistance, you can contact the office at (479) 968-0445 or follow the link here.

Disability Services

Disability Services is dedicated to ensuring that all students have equal access to education and campus life by providing a wide range of accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities, including physical and mental health conditions as well as learning deficiencies. Support may include the use of emotional support animals or service animals in residence halls, assistive technology such as iPads or recording devices, and academic accommodations like flexibility with due dates and attendance. To receive accommodations, students must apply through the Disability Services website and submit documentation of their disability, which may include diagnoses such as ADHD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, depression, autoimmune disorders, or food-related conditions. High school documentation, such as Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Plans, is also accepted. The Disability Services team is committed to guiding students through each step of the accommodation process and ensuring that their needs are met. For assistance or questions, students can contact the office at (479) 968-0302 or this link here

Testing Services

Testing Services supports students throughout their academic journey, from their first semester through graduation, by offering a variety of exams that contribute to student recruitment, retention, and overall success. Located in the Doc Bryan Student Services Center, Room 211, the office administers several key exams, including ACCUPLACER for course placement, the TEAS exam for nursing program admission, PRAXIS tests for teacher certification, and CLEP exams, which allow students to earn up to 30 college credit hours by testing out of general education courses. CLEP is especially valuable, as it helps students save both time and money by awarding credit for knowledge they already possess; a full list of CLEP-eligible courses is available on their website under the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). For students enrolled in the Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) program, study materials and preparation support are available to help ensure testing success. Link to their site here.

Health & Wellness

Arkansas Tech University’s Health & Wellness Center supports students and employees by providing on-campus healthcare and mental health services. Located in the Doc Bryan Student Services Center, Suite 119, the center offers basic medical care, vaccinations, medical testing, and educational resources on common health concerns such as the flu and urinary tract infections. Mental health services include short-term counseling for issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as assistance in connecting individuals with long-term or specialized care providers. The center also provides free mental health pamphlets and lists of local resources. Topics addressed by the center include anxiety, depression, personal hygiene, sexual health conditions such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HPV, and HIV, common illnesses like bronchitis, flu, and sore throat, and various reproductive and urinary health issues. During the academic year, the clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, and during the summer (May 12–August 8), it operates Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM and Friday from 8 AM to 12 PM. For assistance or appointments, the Health & Wellness Center can be reached at (479) 968-0329 or click the link here.

Student Employment

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. To participate, students must be enrolled at least half-time and may work up to 20 hours per week, with payment issued monthly on the 15th. Positions are available on campus or through community service, and students can check their eligibility using the Estimated Work-Study Eligibility Chart. For students who do not qualify for financial aid, Non Work-Study Student Employment offers the same benefits as FWS positions, requiring at least half-time enrollment, allowing up to 20 hours of work per week, and paying monthly on the 15th. Off-campus employment opportunities are also available in Russellville and nearby areas; while these jobs are not directly affiliated with ATU, Career Services helps students connect with local employers. To begin exploring job openings, students can visit Handshake, ATU’s online job portal, at atu.edu/career, or contact the Student Employment Office at (479) 968-0278. Please note that all positions are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The CLEP exam lets you earn college credit by showing what you already know in certain subject areas. If you pass, you can skip some introductory courses and save time and money. To learn more about the CLEP exams offered and how to register, click the learn more button below.

Keep in mind that no more than a total of 30 semester hours of correspondence, extension, military service, or credit by examination work may be applied as credit towards a degree.

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What are the Benefits of enrolling into Veteran Upward Bound?

Qualified veterans will receive support to achieve their academic goals.
Program provides opportunities for veterans to reestablish fundamental skills and study habits required for successful performance at the post-secondary educational level.
Men and women veterans of all ages will gain access to information about college and career awareness.
Program is individually tailored to the needs of each veteran.
Veterans will be able to learn in an environment alongside fellow veterans and will receive support from VUB staff members who understand the unique needs of veterans.
Monlthly Online Trainings which participants will reive a $40 stipend once completed.

What Services are provided?

Services Include: