Washington County lawmakers: Students can now
apply for $5k work-based learning scholarships
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.
“In more rural areas like ours, students face challenges when they want to gain work experiences outside the classroom like internships and apprenticeships,” said State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour). "This scholarship will open more doors for young Hoosiers by providing opportunities to explore their career interests and learn transferable skills that can help set them up for success after graduation. We also want to encourage local employers to engage with the next generation of talent by becoming a CSA provider."
State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) 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.
"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."
State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) 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.
"Data shows that students learn and retain a tremendous amount from having experiences beyond the classroom," May said. "Many students are better served with interactive educational options, which can lead to promising careers or set them up to pursue other credentials or training after graduation."
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 May, 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 atin.gov/tos/csa.
To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email