Upward Bound is a federally funded program that prepares its participants for college. It serves first generation and/or low-income students. The Upward Bound (UB) program is designed to foster in its students the skills and motivation necessary for a successful high school career and smooth transition to college. All services provided by the Upward Bound program are free of charge.

The Avila Upward Bound program is currently funded to serve 55 students at Grandview and Ruskin High schools in the Kansas City area. Students who participate in the Avila University Upward Bound program attend weekly tutoring sessions and a monthly Saturday study session. Tutoring sessions are designed to help students with their core subjects. Students also receive assistance in other academic areas. In addition to providing extra tutoring for students, Saturday sessions are used to help high school seniors with the college application process. This includes providing assistance with financial aid and scholarship application processes.