Veterans Upward Bound is a program designed to help veterans continue or complete their education. The training gained in the military does not always guarantee employment. In fact, sometimes it is not even recognized by private industry. Whether you are recently separated from the military, unemployed, or just looking to improve your marketable skills, VUB is here to help. The following are some commonly asked questions that may help you decide if VUB can assist you in furthering your education.

Q. What are the requirements to qualify for the program?

A. You must be a veteran who served at least 180 days of continuous active duty, have received other than a dishonorable discharge, and be either low income or first generation (neither parent graduated with a four-year baccalaureate degree) or both. In the case of a service connected medical discharge, the 180 day requirement is waived.


Q. Are there any other prerequisites?

A. Yes, you must have an academic need and an education goal you wish to attain.


Q. How do you determine my academic need?

A. You will be given a standardized test. Also, you will be interviewed about your past academic performance, work experience and what goals you have - academic and employment.


Q. Is there any cost involved?

A. No. All materials and services are provided through funding from a U.S. Department of Education grant. However, VUB is not an entitlement program.


Q. How does the program work?

A. After you determine your education goal, the VUB staff will help you find your way. It could be a lack of money, a need for academic preparation, an unfamiliarity with the college or higher educational systems or any number of other barriers.


Q. What do I have to do?

A. VUB and you will design a plan to answer your educational needs. You only have to fulfill the plan. It is a personal roadmap to success. It may involve filling out financial aid forms, contacting colleges, or taking refresher classes.


Q. What is the deal with these classes?

A. If you need to take classes, it's because you are not currently functioning at the level required to attain your academic goal. All VUB classes are personally designed to meet your needs. You only work on the subjects you need until you feel you are ready to move on to a postsecondary school. You are expected to be at class or contact your teacher to get your assignment. The idea is to get through VUB and on to further your education. The quicker your work is completed, the quicker you finish and move on. Online tutorials in math, English, and science are also available to participants.


Q. Where do I have to go to take these classes?

A. VUB currently offers classes Charleston, Clarksburg, Elkins, Fairmont, Huntington, Morgantown, and Parkersburg. Class type, places, dates, and times rotate according to need. Contact VUB for a current schedule..


Q. What if I find out about the classes after the program has already started, or I have to leave for several weeks because of something like guard duty?

A. It doesn't matter! Since all work is individualized, it does not matter when you started. You start where you need to start and finish when you have fulfilled your plan. In terms of missing several weeks because of other obligations, or say, an extended illness, it does not matter because on your return, you just pick up where you left off.


Q. How will I know when I am ready for school past high school?

A. The requirements for the post-secondary school that you want to attend will be reviewed with you. You will be in individualized classes to meet your particular need. Lastly, you will be given a posttest when classes are completed.


Q. What if I want to go to college but can't afford it?

A. The VUB staff will assist you in filing for aid. There are many sources of funding for college. State and Federal financial aid, college endowments, veterans education benefits, and a computer program containing over 2,500 sources of scholarships are just a few of the options your advisor will share with you. We do on-line searches too.


Q. I work night shift, I'm a single parent who can't afford a babysitter, I don't own a car, etc. How can I fulfill my education goal if I can't attend regularly scheduled classes?

A. There are several choices. We have a training lab and personnel available to help you from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can check out textbooks, audiocassettes, videocassettes, and computer software to work on your own. Online tutorials are available. VUB can arrange for a tutor on a limited basis, or arrange meetings at a time or location to suit you. In all instances, it will be necessary to meet with your instructor and advisor first.


Q. What subjects do you offer?

A. We offer training in English, Math , Science, Foreign Language, and Computer. Special training for such things as the ACT/SAT, medical terminology and math, the GED test, etc., are also available. Tell us what you need and we will try to provide it.


Q. Do I have to go to Davis & Elkins College?

A. No. Of course, we would like you to seriously consider attending D & E. However, we will help you enter and complete any postsecondary school.