GEAR UP Program 2025 Federal Grants – Application Deadline and Eligibility Details

As of July 2025, the U.S. Department of Education has Verifiedly opened applications for the 2025 cycle of the GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) federal grant initiative.

This competitive grant supports low-income middle and high school students by helping them prepare for postsecondary education. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 funding round.

GEAR UP 2025 Federal Grant Applications Now Open — Apply by June 25 to Support First-Gen College Students

What Is GEAR UP?

GEAR UP is a federal initiative designed to improve college readiness and success for low-income and first-generation students. Through long-term partnerships with schools, community colleges, and nonprofits, GEAR UP provides academic tutoring, mentoring, financial literacy, parent engagement, and early college awareness services to students in grades 6 through 12.

Programs are structured as either state grants or partnership grants, offering up to 7 years of funding.

Who Can Apply for GEAR UP 2025?

The GEAR UP 2025 funding cycle is open to two types of applicants:

• State Educational Agencies (SEAs)
• Partnership entities such as local education agencies (LEAs), institutions of higher education, and nonprofit organizations

Individual students do not apply directly but may benefit from local programs funded under GEAR UP awards.

📢 2025 GEAR UP Grants — Help Your Students Prepare for College with Up to 7 Years of Federal Funding

This year’s competition offers awards that can span from 5 to 7 years. Grantees must serve at least one grade cohort and follow students through high school graduation. Matching funds from non-federal sources are required, and priority may be given to applicants focusing on STEM, financial aid counseling, and first-generation college students.

Key Dates and Application Deadline

According to the Verified notice from the U.S. Department of Education, applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by:

• Deadline: June 25, 2025, 11:59 PM EST
• Technical Assistance Webinar: June 5, 2025 (Recording available online)

Late applications will not be considered, and all required forms must be complete and uploaded through the ED Grants Portal.

What Do GEAR UP Funds Cover?

Funding can be used for:

• Academic tutoring and mentoring
• College visits and summer enrichment programs
• Parent engagement and FAFSA completion assistance
• Professional development for teachers and counselors
• Dual enrollment and Advanced Placement access

Grants typically range from $500,000 to several million per year depending on cohort size and proposed scope.

How to Apply for GEAR UP Funding

Eligible agencies and partnerships must apply through the federal portal:

• Apply via: Grants.gov
• Funding Opportunity Number (FON): ED-GRANTS-052525-GEARUP
• Submission includes narrative, budget justification, and letters of support

Technical assistance documents and FAQ sheets are available on ed.gov/gearup.

Success Stories and Impact

Past GEAR UP programs have helped thousands of underserved students enroll and persist in college. Highlights include:

• 30% increase in FAFSA completion among GEAR UP cohorts
• Higher college attendance among first-gen students in rural and urban districts
• More equitable access to AP and dual credit programs

Many former GEAR UP students report stronger academic identity and greater motivation for postsecondary success.

Summary Overview

• Program: GEAR UP 2025 Federal Grant
• Applicants: SEAs, LEAs, IHEs, nonprofits (not individuals)
• Deadline: June 25, 2025 (Grants.gov)
• Duration: 5 to 7 years of renewable funding
• Purpose: College readiness for low-income and first-gen students

🎓 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can individual students or parents apply for GEAR UP?

No. GEAR UP grants are awarded to institutions or organizations, not individuals. Students benefit through local implementation.

Are matching funds required?

Yes. Applicants must provide at least 50% of the requested grant amount in matching funds from non-federal sources.

Can private schools or charter schools participate?

Yes, if they are part of an eligible partnership led by a public agency or IHE. Charter LEAs are eligible if registered properly.

What types of activities are typically funded?

Tutoring, mentoring, college campus visits, dual enrollment, and FAFSA help are among the most common uses of funds.

Can existing GEAR UP grantees reapply?

Yes, if their current cycle is ending and they propose a new cohort or expansion, they may be eligible to compete again.