Press Release, Indiana Department of Education:

The State of Indiana is now accepting applications for students to participate in the Career Scholarship Account (CSA) program during the upcoming school year. The first-in-the-nation CSA program provides $5,000 annually for tenth through twelfth 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 Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana 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 Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Chris Lowery. “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 Treasurer of State 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, Indiana Treasurer of State. “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.”

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.

Additional details on how funds may be used can be found here.