Students can now apply for $5k work-based learning scholarships

Pursue work-based learning and credentials

STATEHOUSE (May 21, 2024) – Local lawmakers encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.

“Hoosier students should have access to earn and learn opportunities that allow them to explore their interests before leaving high school,” said State Rep. Alex Zimmerman (R-North Vernon). "These scholarships will help open the door for students to learn more about a variety of career paths and the required training needed, and then start skilling up.”

State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) said Hoosier students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades at a state accredited public or private school can receive up to a $5,000 state-funded scholarship to pursue apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, work-based learning and credentials attainment. About 2,000 spots are available for the 2024-2025 school year and students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account until the Oct. 1 deadline.

"Getting experience before entering the workforce can be a huge boost for young Hoosiers," Patterson said. "By taking part in hands-on learning opportunities, more students will have the skills and knowledge to pursue high-demand jobs or further training after high school."

State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) 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.

"We know that many students want to pursue opportunities and training outside of attending a four-year college," Meltzer said. "Through this program, we're helping make sure all students have a pathway to success by removing barriers to work-based learning opportunities. Through internship and apprenticeship experiences, young Hoosiers can get exposure to a variety of careers and start their training."

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

• Class expenses for student's apprenticeships/internship program;
• Postsecondary education and/or training;
• Equipment for student's apprenticeship/internship program;
• Certification and credentialing examinations;
• Career coaching and navigation services;
• Driver's license; and
• Transportation.

According to State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown), courses and classes include a variety of topics like accounting, carpentry, cybersecurity, information technology, software development and veterinary science. A full list of approved courses, educational experiences and participating entities can be found at in.gov/tos/csa.

"I'm excited for our local students who will be able to get a jumpstart on learning more about their career interests and pursuing training thanks to these scholarships,” Engleman said. "This is also a great opportunity for local employers to sign up to be a provider, so that they can help train the next generation of Hoosier workers for the jobs of today and tomorrow."

"This a great program to broaden our students' horizons and enable them to explore different opportunities," said State Rep. Zach Payne (R-Charlestown). “Hands-on experiences can really add value to the classroom lessons and give students so many transferable skills that will serve them well beyond high school."

"Indiana will always need plumbers, electricians, IT professionals and other skilled workers," said State Rep. Randy Lyness (R-West Harrison). "Career Scholarship Accounts give students who are interested in these fields the option to get hands-on experience early on."

To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email CSA@tos.in.gov or call 317-232-0723.

Local employers, trade associations, labor unions and others interested in connecting with the next generation of talent can apply to host a CSA program or be a provider. Visit in.gov/tos/csa and click on "provider resources" for more information.