The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) grant through the U.S. Department of Education supports a comprehensive effort designed to better prepare students in underserved school districts for college and to help ensure their success. The State System was awarded its fourth GEAR UP grant in 2021, with our universities serving as higher education partners to help carry out the grant’s mission. Universities help develop programming, host college visits, summer camps, and workshops; and provide other experiential opportunities.
Specific objectives of the program are to:
- Increase student achievement, graduation rates, and students' preparation for postsecondary education.
- Develop a "college-going culture" within schools and communities.
- Increase parent knowledge of postsecondary education options, preparation, and financing.
- Increase enrollment and first-year to second-year persistence in postsecondary education.