Hamilton County lawmakers: students can now apply for $5K work-based learning scholarships

Local lawmakers encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.

“Indiana remains laser-focused on expanding work-based learning opportunities to help Hoosiers skill up for the jobs of today and the future,” House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) said. “With the help of Career Scholarship Accounts, our hope is that employers will step up to make connections with students early on about training and job opportunities, which will set more young Hoosiers up for success after graduation.”

State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville), author of the law creating the scholarships, 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.

“Hands-on opportunities teach young Hoosiers essential skills that prepare them for the next stages of their life,” Goodrich said. “This scholarship can help our students discover a pathway to success, whether that’s entering the workforce upon graduation, pursuing additional training or attending college.”

State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) 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.

“Career Scholarship Accounts are really a gamechanger for students,” Jeter said. “They’ll have more access to outside learning opportunities can help them identify their interests and start building skills so they can hit the ground running after graduating from high school.”

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
• Transportation

According to State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel), 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.

“Whether students are planning to enroll in college or enter the workforce, the training made possible through Career Scholarship Accounts can help set them up for a bright future,” Schaibley said. “I encourage all students who are eligible to apply today.”

“By removing financial barriers to hands-on, work-based learning experiences and training, students can learn more about possible career paths and expand their skills,” State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel) said. “These scholarships will open up opportunities for more students, especially those who often face financial hurdles, when pursuing experiences outside the classroom like internships and apprenticeships.”

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.