GEAR UP Scholarship

Eligibility Requirements

• GEAR UP Participation: You must enroll in GEAR UP by October 1, of your graduation year and participated in at least three GEAR UP activities/services during your graduation year. 
• Federal Aid Eligible: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal student aid and have the results sent to the school you are attending. 
• Age Limit: Applicants must be under the age of 22 at the time of award contract. 
• Enrollment in Undergraduate College/University: Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate institution.

Senior Checklist

• Participate in at least 3 GEAR UP activities/services 
• Complete FAFSA and have it sent to the school you will attend and enroll in college courses 
• Complete the GEAR UP scholarship application (after enrolled in college courses)

When to Apply

• Applications open in the spring before high school graduation.
• Students may apply anytime after graduation, as long as they remain eligible, before age 22.
• Processing can take time, especially if applying before graduation, since funds cannot be released until graduation is confirmed.
• Students who are unsure of their plans can wait to apply when ready to enroll.
• Because this is a one time scholarship, it is best to apply during the semester with full-time status to maximize the award.

Award

• One time award of up to $740 for eligible students
• Available to full time students and prorated for part time students
• Funds are paid directly to the institution where the student is enrolled
• If tuition has already been covered, funds may be applied to fees, books, or other educational expenses

Application Process

1. COMPLETE the GEAR UP Utah Scholarship application online.

   Submit your application through the official GEAR UP Utah website before the deadline. Make sure all required fields are filled out accurately and completely. Double check your contact information, especially your email address, since future steps will be sent there.

2. CHECK your email for an approval message and the next required steps.

   After you graduate and your application has been reviewed, you will receive an email letting you know it has been approved and outlining what to do next. Read this message carefully and follow all instructions. If you do not see it, check your spam or junk folder. If you have not received this form by July 15, please contact the GEAR UP budget manager - [email protected].

3. FILL OUT the top portion of the Financial Needs Analysis form sent to your email.

   You will receive a Financial Needs Analysis form by email after your graduation has been confirmed. Once you've registered for classes at your college, complete the student section fully and accurately, then sign it as instructed. Submit it promptly so the process can continue without delays.

4. CONFIRM that your college completes its portion of the Financial Needs Analysis.

   After you submit your section, your college will complete the institutional portion of the form. Stay in contact with your financial aid office to ensure their section is completed and returned. Your eligibility cannot be confirmed until this step is finished.

5. ACCEPT the award contract once your eligibility for federal aid is verified.

   If your institution confirms that you are eligible for federal financial aid, you will receive an award contract. Review the contract carefully, sign it, and return it as soon as possible to officially accept your scholarship.

6. RECEIVE scholarship funds through your institution.

   Once your signed contract is processed, scholarship funds will be sent directly to your college or university. The funds will be applied to your student account according to your school’s financial aid procedures. The funds may not be disbursed before tuition deadlines, so please arrange for tuition payment plans where needed.

    

*Throughout each stage, regularly check your email and respond promptly to any requests. Staying organized and communicating with both your school and GEAR UP Utah will help ensure everything stays on track.

Contact

If you have any questions regarding this process or your application please reach out to the GEAR UP Utah Budget Manager: [email protected]