The West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award

The application period for the 2012 West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award is now open.

About the award:
Students graduating in the spring of 2012 from a West Virginia GEAR UP high school may be eligible to receive at least $200 to use toward attending college at West Virginia Higher Education Grant eligible institutions. Many students may receive even more money, depending on their financial need. Click here to download the full list of eligibility requirements. Still sound a little confusing? If you answer "yes" to all of the following questions*, then you should apply to receive the WV GEAR UP Incentive Award.

Question 1: Are you graduating from high school in spring of 2012?

Question 2: Are you graduating from one of these high schools?

Question 3: Are you planning on attending one of these colleges as a full-time student in the fall of 2012?

Question 4: Will you complete and submit your FAFSA form by April 16, 2012?

If you've been shaking your head "yes," you are likely eligible, and you should apply to receive the West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award. But hurry! The deadline is April 16, 2012.

*Please note: some additional elibility terms apply, so be sure to read the full rules and regulations when you click on the application link.

Incentive Award Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I use the Incentive Award?
The West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award can be applied to help cover the cost of tuition at one of these institutions.

How do I know if my high school is a West Virginia GEAR UP high school?
If you're unsure of whether or not your school participates in West Virginia GEAR UP, click here to view a list of schools. If you know your school is a GEAR UP school, but haven't heard much about the Incentive Award, ask your guidance counselor or West Virginia GEAR UP site coordinator for more information.

When can I use the Incentive Award?
The Incentive Award can be used to pay for your first year of college. GEAR UP may split your award between the fall and spring semesters (depending on how much you receive). You must be in good academic standing (as defined by your institution) in order to receive any funds allocated for the spring 2013 semester.

When will I find out if I received an Incentive Award?
You will be notified of your estimated award amount no later than July 30, 2012. You will receive a letter even if you didn't qualify to receive any money.

When will I receive my award money?
You will never receive a check for your Incentive Award. All funds will be sent directly to the institution you plan to attend.

What if I change my mind about college?
If you decide to change colleges before fall, it is your responsibility to notify West Virginia GEAR UP so that we can send your award to the correct school. Please remember — the WV GEAR UP Incentive Award can only be used at these institutions.

How much money can I receive?
West Virginia GEAR UP will provide all eligible students (who apply) with at least $200 for college. Students who need more (based on the information reported on the FAFSA) will receive more. The West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award is a one-time award and cannot be renewed.

Can the West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award be used later (beyond my first year of college)?
No—the West Virginia GEAR UP Incentive Award cannot be renewed or deferred. It is intended to help pay for the first year of education only for students entering college in the fall of 2012.

I've heard there's an older GEAR UP program - do I qualify for that?
The class of 2011 was the last class eligible to receive funds for college from the old GEAR UP program. Questions regarding the old program, which was active in Clay, Lincoln, McDowell, and Roane counties, can be directed to Bob Long at (304) 558-4618. All questions regarding our program, which began in 2008, can be directed to (304) 558-0655 or gearupinfo@hepc.wvnet.edu.