​Awards are made after federal Pell Grant, state aid, and other public or private aid (excluding loans and work-study) have been applied. Additionally, each application will be processed and verified following the drop/add period listed at the institution. Awards will be made after the drop/add period.

Grant Applicant Eligibility: To receive a GEAR UP Scholarship, a student must:

1.     have participated in GEAR UP activities at GEAR UP sites in Baltimore City, Dorchester, or Wicomico Counties during the grant period (2014-2020);

2.     be a Maryland resident according to the institution’s state residency policy;

3.     be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a program of undergraduate instruction at an accredited two- or four-year institution of higher education, private career school, or state/regional accredited trade school/certificate program;

4.     receive a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent;​ 

5.     be less than 22 years old at the time of the first scholarship award; and​

6.     maintain satisfactory academic progress in accordance with the standards of the institution he/she is attending.​

Please note: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ​) and GEAR UP Scholarship Application must be filed to be considered for a GEAR UP Scholarship award. The FAFSA and GEAR UP Scholarship Application must be filed to be considered for a GEAR UP Scholarship award. Complete the FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov before March 1 each year.

Award Amount: The maximum GEAR UP Scholarship award is $15,000 for the fall and spring of the 2023-2024 academic year and $10,000 for summer 2023. Please note that the award amount will vary depending on the student’s financial need; however, the student’s award will not exceed the COA.

It is our mission to process and award the scholarships accurately and promptly. If a student is eligible for the GEAR UP Scholarship, they will be notified via the email listed on the application. If a student transfers or withdraws from the institution listed on the application, it is the responsibility of the student to notify MHEC immediately to avoid a delay in the processing of the award.​ The GEAR UP Scholarship Application is available below: 

GEAR UP Scholarship Application - Summer 2023 - Due July 1, 2023

GEAR UP Scholarship Application - Fall 2023/Spring 2024 

For Questions and technical assistance, please contact us at gearup.mhec@maryland.gov.  ​

For more information on a GEAR UP supported program click on the program link listed below.

• ​View Maryland GEAR UP Workforce Employability and Leadership Skills Program (WELSP)​​