G.E.A.R. U.P.

This discretionary grant program is designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) provides six- to seven-year grants to states and partnerships to provide services at high-poverty middle and high schools. GEAR UP grantees serve an entire cohort of students beginning no later than the seventh grade and follow their progress through high school and into the first year of college. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.