Logo of Rising Scholars on a purple background, indicating a program for motivated Harvard High School students aiming for college.

Rising Scholars

The year-round Harvard High School Rising Scholars program is designed for you—a Harvard High School student with the desire, motivation, and potential to graduate and pursue a college degree.

  • The Harvard High School Rising Scholars program assists you as you complete high school and pursue a college degree.
  • You receive an array of support services and resources to help you prepare for and get into college.
  • Program services are free for you and are available both during and after school.

Five Reasons to Join Harvard High School Rising Scholars

  1. It’s empowering: You do have the ability to finish high school, go to college, and start a fulfilling career. Harvard High School Rising Scholars helps you find the resources you need.
  2. It’s a way to develop valuable skills: You'll learn how to study, how to reach goals, and more.
  3. It’s a source of support: Your peers and the staff become a community of people who want you to be your best.
  4. It’s fun: You’ll make friends and go on trips.
  5. It’s free: Harvard High School Rising Scholars covers all costs associated with participating.
  • How does Harvard High School Rising Scholars help me get on the path to college?

    We know many students have to overcome significant roadblocks to complete high school and get to college, and we’re here to help.

    Here are some of the free services you may use or participate in:

    • Tutoring and study skills help, consisting of:
      • After-school tutoring and 24/7 online tutoring
      • Saturday Academy – supplemental academic instruction and tutoring
      • Summer Academy (six weeks) – rigorous academic instruction, tutoring, and ACT preparation
    • Monthly academic advising at Harvard High School
    • Career development
    • Financial aid assistance
    • Enrichment activities, including college visits and educational/cultural trips
  • What does it cost to join?

    Nothing—Harvard High School Rising Scholars is free! Harvard High School Rising Scholars even pays for costs like meals and admission fees when you’re on a trip.

  • What activities are required for Harvard High School Rising Scholars participants?

    All participants attend the following:

    • "Destined for College" meetings are held once a month during the school year in person at Harvard High School
    • In-person tutoring session either on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday, or online through UpSwing
    • Scheduled Saturday Academies and workshops once per month
    • After-school and homeroom meetings at your school
    • Summer Academy
  • How do I know if I'm eligible to join Harvard High School Rising Scholars?

    To be eligible to participate in the program, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

    • Must be a low-income individual and/or a potential first-generation college student
    • Must be enrolled at Harvard High School
  • How do I apply to join Harvard High School Rising Scholars?
    1. Visit Harvard High School, Room 307, from Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to pick up an application. Applications are available in both English and Spanish.
    2. Email Rene Govea or call (815) 321-1251 to schedule an application review and interview.