PORTLAND — The University of Southern Maine is offering a first-of-its-kind program that helps veterans prepare to become first-time college students.

Veterans Upward Bound provides free, one-on-one resources, including advising, mentoring and tutoring, along with practical assistance in filling out financial aid forms and college applications.

The Veterans Upward Bound program is being funded by a $264,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

The year-round individualized assistance can take place online or in person and veterans can apply to any school, not just USM. Call 780-4627 or email  vub@maine.edu for more information.