GEAR UP Guarantee
The GEAR UP Guarantee is a guaranteed admissions program to Appalachian State University for students currently attending a GEAR UP high school listed below that meet the following academic requirements* and application deadlines for admission.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum weighted GPA of a 3.25
- Meet the minimum admission requirements (MER) and minimum course requirements (MCR) for admission to the UNC System, and
- Successfully complete a Criminal Background Check and Conduct Review, if requested
*Students that do not meet the academic requirements of the GEAR UP Guarantee will still be considered for admission and are encouraged to apply as early as possible as Appalachian holistically reviews each application for admission. We encourage all students to discuss their individual college goals and pathways with a school counselor or college advisor.
Application Process
Complete an application for admission to App State.
- Learn about deadlines, application requirements for first-year students and how to apply using the Common Application.
- The application is due by November 15th. Supporting materials should be received no later than November 30th.
There are no additional steps to be considered for the GEAR UP Guarantee.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Complete the FAFSA as early as possible for priority consideration for need-based assistance.
- Apply for Scholarships and Selective Academic Programs by November 15th. Submit all supplemental materials by Nov. 30
Questions?
View the GEAR UP FAQs or reach out to the GEAR UP team.
Eligible High Schools
- Alleghany High
- Ashe County High
- Burke Virtual Academy
- Bunker Hill High School
- Challenger Early College High School
- Draughn High School
- East Burke High School
- East Wilkes High
- Franklin High School
- Freedom High School
- Fred T Foard High School
- Hayesville High
- Jackson County Early College
- Macon Early College
- Madison High School
- Madison Early College HS
- Maiden High School
- McDowell Academy for Innovation
- McDowell Early College
- McDowell High
- Mountain Heritage High
- North Wilkes High
- Patton High School
- Polk County High
- Polk County Early College
- Saint Stephens High School
- Smoky Mountain High School
- Swain High School
- Transylvania High School
- Robbinsville High School
- Rosman High School
- Watauga High School
- Watauga Innovation Academy
- West Wilkes High
- Wilkes Central High
- Wilkes Early College HS