Students, apply for Indiana's 21st Century Scholars Program

State Representative Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) said in a recent release that a college degree is within reach for many Hoosier students, and help is available to make that happen. He said, “Indiana's 21st Century Scholars program is a unique opportunity that helps income-eligible students in seventh and eighth grade afford a higher education after graduating from high school.”

Families can now enroll their students in the program to receive free tuition at any in-state public college or university for up to four years or a portion of tuition at private or independent colleges in the state. A list of available colleges is available here. Representative Jordan said, “Applications must be received by June 30 of the student's eighth grade year. Thanks to a law passed in 2023, current seventh and eighth grade students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches under the National School Lunch Program are automatically enrolled in the 21st Century Scholars Program.”

To be considered eligible for this program, a student must be an Indiana resident, in seventh or eighth grade, a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, and a member of a family that meets income eligibility requirements. You can enroll your child as a 21st Century Scholar from the time they enter seventh grade to June 30 of their eighth-grade year. Once students are in high school, they are no longer eligible for the program.

Not only do scholars have 100% of all tuition costs covered, but they also receive guidance and support so they can succeed in high school and college.

To be eligible, students must maintain their Scholar Pledge throughout high school, which requires scholars to earn an overall high school grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and graduate with at least a Core 40 diploma. Students must also commit to not using illegal drugs or alcohol or breaking the law.

For many, this program opens up opportunities to afford a college education and achieve their career goals. Students and parents, don't wait to apply. The June 30th deadline is quickly approaching, so I strongly encourage those who want to save on college costs to apply at Scholars.in.gov/enroll.

For more information, visit learnmoreindiana.org/scholars.