About Us

The Colorado GEAR UP Program

Colorado GEAR UP is a federally funded pre-collegiate program designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.

We have successfully served Colorado students for more than 20 years through four consecutive federal grants. Our most recent award, GEAR UP 4 (2018–2025), is now coming to an end. During GU4, we served 5,000 students across fifteen high schools and continued to expand services in under-resourced communities.

New Grant Award: GEAR UP 5

We are excited to announce that Colorado has been awarded the fifth GEAR UP grant. A new seven-year project cycle will begin soon, building on more than two decades of successful GEAR UP programming in our state.

With the new GEAR UP 5 award, Colorado will continue providing comprehensive college readiness services for thousands of students statewide. This upcoming seven-year grant cycle will expand programming, strengthen partnerships, and bring updated tools and resources to students and families.

More details about GEAR UP 5 will be shared soon as implementation begins.

Program Services

Colorado GEAR UP services include:

• One-on-one mentoring and advising
• Financial literacy and financial aid curriculum
• STEM programming
• Concurrent enrollment opportunities
• CLEP testing
• Rigorous coursework
• Tutoring and academic support
• College visits and summer programs
• Assistance with the college admission process
• College transition support
• Colorado GEAR UP Scholarship
• Wrap-around support services for college students

Previous Colorado GEAR UP Grants

• GEAR UP I — 1999–2005
• GEAR UP II — 2005–2011
• GEAR UP III — 2011–2018
• GEAR UP IV — 2018–2025