Colorado Department of Higher Education
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP)
Colorado GEAR UP Awarded $35 Million Federal Grant to Continue Transforming College Access for Low-Income Students
DENVER – October 9, 2025
Colorado GEAR UP has been awarded its fifth consecutive seven-year grant cycle from the U.S. Department of Education, securing $35 million to continue its mission of increasing college and career readiness among low-income students across the state. This highly competitive grant will support services for 6,000 students in 16 under-resourced high schools, from ninth grade through their first year of college.
“GEAR UP is a powerful example of what happens when we invest in students early and consistently,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, executive director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education. “This grant allows us to continue breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities for students who have historically been underserved. The outcomes speak volumes—and we’re just getting started.”
GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a national, federally funded initiative designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Serving nearly 590,000 students in more than 3,000 secondary schools nationwide, GEAR UP is one of the largest and most effective college access programs in the country.
Since its inception in Colorado in 1999, the program has consistently delivered exceptional outcomes, surpassing state averages in key indicators of student success. Under the current grant cycle, Colorado GEAR UP reports:
- 78% FAFSA Completion Rate (Class of 2024), compared to the state average of 36.7%. FAFSA is a key indicator of college-going behavior.
- 72% College-Going Rate (Class of 2023), significantly higher than Colorado’s overall rate of 49.9% and 35.2% among students eligible for free or reduced lunch.
- 84% College Persistence Rate (Class of 2023).
To date, GEAR UP Colorado has awarded nearly $39 million in scholarships, further fueling its commitment to student achievement and long-term success.
“The success of the program is a direct reflection of the outstanding dedication and expertise of our field advisors and leadership team,” said Christina Ingrum, Colorado GEAR UP program director. “These professionals are deeply committed to the mission, wholeheartedly believe in the potential of our students, and work tirelessly to transform aspirations into reality within the communities we serve.”
GEAR UP Colorado’s comprehensive services include one-on-one mentoring and advising, a college preparatory curriculum, financial aid education, STEM programming, concurrent enrollment opportunities, CLEP testing, tutoring, summer programs, college visits, scholarships and wraparound support for college students. These services are designed to build college-going cultures within schools and empower students to pursue higher education with confidence.
With this new grant, Colorado GEAR UP continues its legacy of impact, innovation, and equity—ensuring that thousands more students across the state have the opportunity to succeed in college and beyond.
About the Colorado Department of Higher Education
Working with the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, we support students, advocate, and develop policies to maximize higher education opportunities for all. The Department believes every Coloradan should have an education beyond high school to pursue their dreams and improve our communities.