The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs Office of College Access and K-12 Partnerships
  • In Partnership with the Edinburg, Mission, Donna, Weslaco, and McAllen School Districts
  • Coordinators Meeting_ Collage Photos_ 2025
  • UTRGV GEAR UP_ SLC KICKOFF_ August 202
    UTRGV GEAR UP_ SLC KICKOFF_ August 2025

WE WILL empower the next generation of learners for SUCCESS!

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness to University Programs

Program Components GEAR UP College First Camp UTRGV GEAR UP is a partnership grant funded by the United States Department of Education. Grantees leverage school and community partners to maximize...
Digital Learning Teachers in Math IT Inspire Training UTRGV GEAR UP focuses on equipping students and teachers with the latest technology available to ensure success in 21st century careers.
GEAR UP Events Cohort students visit college campus Cohort students get to experience the college campus first hand through educational events, in-person tours, and collaborations with various partnerships.

Contact Us

Dr. Ernesto F. Ramirez
Director of GEAR UP
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs
ECESS Building 1.400
1407 E Freddy Gonzalez Dr Edinburg TX 78539
Email: utrgvgearup@utrgv.edu
Email: ernesto.ramirez@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 665-2096

Quick Links

About GEAR UP

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Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a federal program aimed at equalizing access to higher education for low-income students. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) is the grant holder for UTRGV Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), a grant designed to begin with a 7th grade cohort and provide supplemental services to this group of students through middle school, high school, and the first year of college. The mission of the UTRGV Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is to significantly increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education. Currently in year two, UTRGV Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) serves 8th grade students, parents, and teachers.