Frequently Asked Questions

What is Veterans Upward Bound?

Veterans Upward Bound is a free college-prep program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. This federally funded program is designed to help qualified military veterans prepare to enroll in a postsecondary school (university, community college, and vocational/technical programs). VUB provides skills and advice to enable veterans to achieve their academic goals. VUB is a part of a group of programs called TRIO programs. These programs serve low-income and first generation college students.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

Where is the Redlands Community College Veterans Upward Bound located?

The primary Oklahoma target area for Veterans Upward Bound at Redlands Community College are the following 14 counties: Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Comanche, Garfield, Grady, Kay, Kiowa, Lincoln, Logan, Noble, Oklahoma, Pawnee and Stephens. The program has satellite offices operating out of the following cities: El Reno at Redlands Community College and Lawton at the Workforce office.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

Does the VUB program at Redlands Community College only help those that want to attend Redlands?

Definitely not! We will help any qualified veteran no matter what school he or she plans to attend. We will help you choose the best program and school to fit your individual needs. For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

How can I enroll in Veterans Upward Bound?

Complete the online VUB application, request more information or contact the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

What documentation do I need to qualify for Veterans Upward Bound?

You will need:

a copy of Military Dischard/DD-214 (Member 4 copy which includes character of service. a copy of Activation/Deployment Orders (only for applicable reserve members) your most recent federal tax return (signed)

National Archives
Request online 
Submit a traditional request form by mail or fax
National Personnel Records Center
1 Archives Drive
St. Louis, MO 63138
Fax a letter or Standard Form 180 to: 314.801.9195

Oklahoma State Veteran Benefits
ODVA State Benefits 
125 S. Main Room 138B, 
Muskogee, OK 74401 
Phone: 918.781.7766 or 405.523.4000

An accredited veterans service organization can assist you in ordering a DD-214. 

Does VUB provide financial aid?

No. Although all services are free to qualified students, we do not provide financial aid for college, university or technical school. We can, however, help you with the financial aid application process, as well as putting you in contact with the appropriate financial aid officials at your prospective school.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

Can VUB help me choose a career or school?

Yes. Using a variety of career interest inventories, our Academic Specialist will work with you to help you determine what career field might be appropriate for you. We can also help you determine which school will best prepare you for your chosen field.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

What are the benefits of attending and completing Veterans Upward Bound?

Veterans can take a college placement test in the VUB program office. The VUB staff will help you enroll or return to college, advise you on college programs and degrees available in Oklahoma, and offer personal and career counseling with professional staff. Veterans are encouraged to return to VUB for additional help and advice throughout their college career.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

What must I do to qualify for VUB?

To benefit from our free educational services you must first meet a few simple eligibility requirements: All participants must have served in active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for more than 180 days and received other than a dishonorable discharge; was discharged because of a service connected disability; was a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces called to active duty for a period of more than 30 days; or was a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces who served on active duty in support of a contingency operation on or after September 11, 2001.

All participants must be either low-income (based on family income and number of dependents) or potential first generation college students (neither parent earned a 4-year degree). All participants must demonstrate academic potential as well as have academic need. 

If you are not sure if you qualify, give us a call and we would be glad to explain the eligibility requirements in further detail. For more information, complete the request form or contact the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

What can VUB do for me?

When you begin the VUB program, you will work one-on-one with an academic specialist to discuss your interests and both your short-term and long-term goals. Academic assessments are completed to determine your strengths and weaknesses, and then a plan is developed to help you reach your goals. Any academic weaknesses can be worked on by in-person, tutoring, or by working independently on our computer tutoring programs. Finally, we will assist you with school applications and the financial aid process. We will also help you make contacts with other agencies providing services to veterans.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

How long should I plan on being in VUB before I am ready to go on to a postsecondary school?

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including current levels of preparedness, scores on assessments and your internal drive to succeed. Some veterans may only require a meeting or two with an academic specialist before they prepare to enter post-secondary education, while others may need more academic tutoring/coaching before enrolling. Ultimately it is up to each veteran to decide when he/she is ready to enroll in the school of his/her choice.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

Can VUB help me find a job?

No, but we can connect you with resources and aid in career counseling.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

I'm already in college or a technology center - am I still eligible to participate in VUB?

Maybe. Our services are focused on getting participants ready to enter school, so they may not be appropriate for those already enrolled. Some schools, including Redlands, have other TRIO programs that specifically serve students already enrolled. Our program does provide services to individuals who have college credit but are not currently enrolled.

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

How is VUB funded? 

VUB is a part of a group of programs called TRIO programs. These programs are funded by the U.S. Department of Education and serve low-income and first-generation college students. VUB is just one such program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. 

For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

I have a question not answered on this page. What should I do?

Feel free to call us with any questions that you might have about VUB. For more information, complete the request form, or we can be reached at the RCC Veterans Upward Bound office at 405.422.1405 or email vub@redlandscc.edu.

Contact Us

Veterans Upward Bound
vub@redlandscc.edu
Phone: 405.422.1405
Fax: 405.422.6285

1300 S. Country Club Rd.
El Reno, OK 73036

Learn More

 

Veterans Crisis Line Dial 988 then Press 1