Upward Bound, along with two other programs - Student Support Services and Rural Talent Search, make up what we know today as TRIO.  When TRIO was created in 1966, it's purpose was to seek to provide educational opportunities for all Americans regardless of race, ethnic background or economic circumstance.  Today, TRIO programs are designed to help students overcome class, social and cultural barriers to higher education by providing information and counseling, academic instruction, tutoring, assistance in applying for financial aid, encouragement and support.

There are currently 1,730 TRIO programs operating nationwide.  TRIO Programs help over 600,000 students each year at a cost of less than $425 million dollars annually.  Two-thirds of TRIO families come from families with incomes less than $20,000 a year, and 58% are members of minority groups.

The Upward Bound program at Texas State University is part of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA).