Montgomery County Lawmakers: New Career Scholarships Can Open Doors For Hoosier High School Students

Deadline to apply for $5,000 scholarship is Oct. 1

Local lawmakers 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.

State Rep. Beau Baird 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 Oct. 1 deadline.

“There are so many well-paying jobs available that require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree,” Baird said. “Interested students can use these scholarships to help pay for work-based learning and earning a credential that could lead to a career upon graduation.”

State Rep. Jeff Thompson 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.

“It’s important that all students can pursue educational opportunities that prepare them for what comes after graduation,” Thompson said. “We’re very excited to launch this program helping young Hoosiers achieve success, no matter their career goals.”

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; and
• Any other expenses approved by the Treasurer of the State.

“Learning a trade can sometimes present financial barriers, but with the Career Scholarship Account program, students are connected to resources and training to start their careers,” said State Rep. Sharon Negele. “This opportunity allows young Hoosiers to gain experience in and out of the classroom, and eligible students should apply soon.”

According to State Rep. Mark Genda, approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.

“College isn’t for everyone and creating different avenues for students to find success is critical,” Genda said. “These new scholarships can help young Hoosiers identify their interests and start building skills so they can hit the ground running after graduating from high school.”

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.

To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, click [in.accessgov.com/tos/Forms/Page/tos/csa-application/1]here. For more information, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email [email protected] or call 317-232-0723.