The state of Indiana is now accepting applications for students to participate in the Career Scholarship Account program during the upcoming school year.
The first-in-the-nation program provides $5,000 annually for 10th through 12th grade students enrolled in eligible work-based learning programs, including internships, apprenticeships, applied learning experiences and credential attainment experiences.
“In K-12 education, we have an incredible opportunity to help every student find their purpose, know their value and understand the possibilities for their life’s path,” said Katie Jenner, Indiana ‘s secretary of education. “In order to maximize the four years of high school, we must work together to ensure more students have access to quality experiences that set them up for success, including high-quality work-based learning and educational attainment opportunities. Indiana’s CSA program is one way to remove barriers, such as transportation, and ensure more students have the opportunity to experience careers and earn a credential of value while still in high school.”
Indiana’s CSA program provides all students the opportunity to explore their interests, gain hands-on experience and build skills that will ensure a seamless transition from high school to higher education and quality careers. CSA funds can be used to cover eligible expenses in the following categories:
- Enrollment fees for courses, sequences, apprenticeships or programs of study;
- Career coaching and navigation services;
- Postsecondary education and training;
- Transportation and equipment; and
- Certification and credentialing examinations.
“Career exploration through work-based learning programs is incredibly valuable to a student’s journey to determine their ideal pathway after high school,” said Chris Lowery, Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education. “As students receive more flexibility to participate in these hands-on experiences, Indiana’s CSA Program will remove potential barriers and increase opportunities for students to discover possibilities for education and training beyond high school.”
Through a coordinated cross-agency effort, the Indiana Department of Education approves eligible programs, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education approves eligible providers and the state treasurer approves eligible students and provider expense reimbursements.
“We are really excited to see how Career Scholarship Accounts will continue to provide great alternative career paths for our students,” said Daniel Elliott, the state treasurer. “With apprenticeship programs gaining momentum, this is another example of how Indiana is leading the way in offering more options for school choice, ensuring that everyone can find the path that’s right for them.”
Local lawmakers also encourage students to apply.
“In more rural areas like ours, students face challenges when they want to gain work experiences outside the classroom like internships and apprenticeships,” said state District 69 Rep. Jim Lucas, R-Seymour. “This scholarship will open more doors for young Hoosiers by providing opportunities to explore their career interests and learn transferable skills that can help set them up for success after graduation. We also want to encourage local employers to engage with the next generation of talent by becoming a CSA provider.”
State District 62 Rep. Dave Hall, R-Norman, said a traditional college degree isn’t for everyone, so other options are needed to help students succeed after graduating.
“Career Scholarship Accounts can help all students access earn and learn experiences so they can explore careers and develop skills to land in-demand jobs or pursue additional training,” he said.
State District 65 Rep. Chris May, R-Bedford, said accounts are available to high school students who are enrolled in a course or educational experience approved by the Indiana Department of Education. Eligible students will participate in joint career and technical education, modern youth apprenticeships, registered apprenticeships or an Indiana College Core program by an approved CSA participating entity.
“Data shows that students learn and retain a tremendous amount from having experiences beyond the classroom,” May said. “Many students are better served with interactive educational options, which can lead to promising careers or set them up to pursue other credentials or training after graduation.”
Students at any Indiana high school are encouraged to apply. Applications for the 2024-2025 school year will be accepted through Tuesday, October 1.
Visit the student resources page for additional information on the CSA program, eligibility requirements and to access the student application here: https://www.in.gov/tos/csa/resources/?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=.
Additional details on how funds may be used can be found here: https://www.in.gov/tos/csa/?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=.