GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a discretionary grant program funded by the U.S. Department of Education and administered by New Jersey Higher Education. The NJ GEAR UP State Project has been awarded to New Jersey Higher Education in 1999, 2005, and 2011. In its efforts to prepare students for college, the project works with students, families, and teachers in 58 middle and high schools in eight urban centers. The seven higher education partner institutions encourage students to obtain college degrees by providing: after-school and Saturday tutoring, summer programs, mentoring, counseling, test preparation, information about financial aid, and college visits. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of taking rigorous high school courses to prepare for postsecondary education and includes scholarships for students who attend eligible New Jersey institutions. NJ GEAR UP also provides professional development for educators within GEAR UP target schools. NJ GEAR UP students are also eligible for the state’s Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program, which provides financial assistance and support services including a summer program before the freshman year in college. New Jersey's financial aid agency, the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority, partners with NJ GEAR UP to provide information about how to pay for college in New Jersey. Parents and teachers of NJ GEAR UP students benefit as well. Parents receive early information about postsecondary education options and availability of financial aid, while teachers receive professional development in core content areas.

1999

US Department of Education

NJ GEAR UP guides middle and high school students on the path to college and provides tools for academic success. With a college education, students will gain career options, knowledge, and skills hat will last a lifetime.