On August 5, the U.S. Department of Education launched the 2027-28 beta testing, allowing hundreds of thousands of students to submit the FAFSA before the October 1, 2026 public release. A limited group of school districts, community-based organizations, and postsecondary institutions will participate in Beta 1 through in-person and virtual FAFSA completion events. In late August – early September 2026, Beta 2 invites any student or parent to visit StudentAid.gov to request to participate.

Stay…

We here at NCCEP appreciate each one of you for participating in this year’s 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference in Washington, DC. More than 1,900 education professionals representing GEAR UP programs from across the nation engaged in plenary sessions, more than 130 concurrent sessions, and a series of special programs.

In the comments section below, please share your highlights and photos from your conference experience. We’d love to hear from you!

See You Next Week!

We are excited to see you next week in Washington, D.C. for the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference!

As you prepare to join us July 19–22, remember to: 

• Download the Conference App. Get the app to create your personal agenda, check out our exhibitors, and get familiar with the hotel floor plans.
• Get Ready for the Roll Call of the GEAR UP States. Monday morning we’ll kick off the event by celebrating each of our GEAR UP states. As always, we encourage noisemakers and…

Click here to register you and your GEAR UP colleagues!

Come ready to participate! Discussion Labs are an opportunity to share, learn, and problem-solve together.

This time of year provides an opportunity for reflection and to ground us in why we do our work. Together, we’ll explore professional and personal mission statements—what they are, why they matter, and how they can reinforce one another. Led by members of NCCEP’s Communications Advisory Committee, this session centers connection,…

Click Here to Register Today!

Going to the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference in July? Join this webinar to learn about the conference, review how to use the planning tools, and cover best practices and tips. We have a tool to share and will also have time for Q&A.

Meet the 2026 Annual Conference Plenary Speakers

We are excited to welcome an outstanding lineup of speakers for the 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference. Each brings a distinct perspective and deep expertise to inform and energize our community as we explore this year’s theme: Lighting The Way.

Leadership is a Beacon | Baruti Kafele

Strong leadership provides clarity and direction during times of change. Baruti Kafele will share how educators can lead with purpose and support others through…

July 19–22, 2026 | Washington, DC

Register Your GEAR Up Team Today!

The 2026 NCCEP/GEAR UP Annual Conference theme highlights how we continue with our mission to serve students. The conference brings together professionals, parents, students, policymakers, and community partners who support GEAR UP. The event includes inspiring plenary sessions, peer-led concurrent sessions, and networking opportunities. Attendees will gain ideas, strategies, and tools to better serve GEAR UP students. 

Lig…

Click Here To Learn More!

NCCEP committees consist of a diverse group of volunteer members who help engage the community, share their expertise for professional development, and offer input to NCCEP on programs and services. Applicants should be NCCEP members and have experience with both GEAR UP and the topic.

Most committees meet monthly via Zoom. Committee members contribute 1 – 2 hours per month over a 2-year term, from October 1 to September 30.

Applications for the 2026-2028 cycle are…