Services begin in middle school, guiding students and families through the early years of college preparation, including preparation's academic, social, emotional, and financial aspects. While each GEAR UP program is designed to meet the unique needs of their local community, GEAR UP programs typically provide:
- Tutoring and homework assistance
- Comprehensive mentoring
- Counseling and advising
- Postsecondary pathway and career exploration
- Financial literacy, financial aid, and scholarship information
- Summer programs
- Campus visits, college and career fairs, job shadowing, and field trips
- Family events
- College application support
- Test preparation and study skills