News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — State Reps. Craig Snow, R-Warsaw, and David Abbott, R-Rome City, encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials outside the classroom to apply for the state’s newly launched Career Scholarship Account program.

Abbott said Hoosier students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades at a state-accredited public or private school can receive up to $5,000 to access qualified training opportunities. About 1,000 spots are available for the 2023-2024 school year and students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account until the Sunday, Oct. 1, deadline.

“To be successful in today’s workforce, we know that employees need additional education and training beyond a high school diploma,” Abbott said. “This new scholarship program can alleviate some of the financial strain so that more students are able to connect with area employers and be better prepared for what comes after graduation.”

Snow said Career Scholarship 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 may also be enrolled in an apprenticeship, applied learning experience, work-based learning and/or credential attainment experience approved by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.

“The workforce is a competitive environment, so students who use Career Scholarship Accounts can benefit over others who don’t have the same experience,” Snow said. “There’s only so many scholarships, so students should not wait to sign up.”

Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:

• Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships or programs of study
• Career coaching and navigation services
• Postsecondary education and training
• Transportation and equipment
• Certification and credentialing examinations
• Any other expenses approved by the state treasurer

Approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.

The State Board of Education is also reviewing high school diploma requirements to provide more flexibility in a student’s schedule, so they can pursue work-based learning and apprenticeship experiences.

For more information, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email [email protected] or call (317) 232-0723.