Introduction: What Is the 21st Century Scholarship?
Imagine graduating debt-free from an Indiana college. The 21st Century Scholarship makes this possible for Hoosier students by covering tuition costs and fostering academic success. Established to support low- and middle-income families, this program rewards students who commit to excellence early—often as early as 7th grade. Whether you’re a parent planning ahead or a student racing toward graduation, this guide unpacks everything you need to ace the 21st Century Scholarship application and secure your future.
What Does the 21st Century Scholarship Cover?
The 21st Century Scholarship Program acts as a tuition promise for Indiana residents. Benefits include:
- Full Tuition Coverage at participating public Indiana colleges.
- Partial Funding for private institutions (up to $9,984 annually in 2025).
- Scholar Track Support: Access to mentorship, college prep workshops, and career guidance.
Note: Funds apply only to tuition—not housing, meals, or textbooks.
21st Century Scholarship Requirements: Who Qualifies?
To earn this scholarship, students must:
- Enroll Early: Sign up in 7th or 8th grade via the 21st Century Scholars login portal.
- Meet Income Limits: Your family’s income must align with federal guidelines (e.g., $60,000 for a family of four in 2025).
- Complete the Scholar Success Program:
- Attend workshops on financial literacy and college readiness.
- Maintain a 2.5 GPA in high school.
- Avoid felony convictions.
- Apply to College: Submit FAFSA and enroll full-time at an eligible Indiana school within a year of graduation.
Pro Tip: Homeschoolers and private school students can apply!
How to Apply for the 21st Century Scholarship
Follow these steps to secure your spot:
- Enroll by June 30 of Your 8th-Grade Year:
- Create a Scholar Track login account.
- Submit proof of Indiana residency and income documents.
- Complete the Scholar Success Program:
- Attend 12+ activities (e.g., campus tours, career fairs).
- Submit a pledge to stay drug-free.
- Apply to College:
- File FAFSA by April 15, 2025.
- Choose from 100+ participating Indiana schools.
- Accept Your Award:
- Check your 21st Century Scholars login portal for updates.
Key 2025 Deadlines You Can’t Miss
- 8th-Grade Enrollment Deadline: June 30, 2025.
- FAFSA Submission: April 15, 2025.
- College Application: Varies by school—aim for November 2025.
5 Pro Tips to Maximize Your Scholarship
- Start Early: Miss the 8th-grade deadline? Some exceptions apply—contact the program ASAP.
- Track Progress: Use the Scholar Track login to monitor requirements.
- Boost Your GPA: Aim for a 3.0+ to qualify for additional Indiana awards.
- Explore Private Schools: The scholarship covers ~80% of average private tuition.
- Stay Informed: Follow @21stCenturyScholars on Instagram for deadline reminders.
FAQs: Your Scholarship Oriented Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use the scholarship out of state?
A: No—funds apply only to Indiana colleges.
Q2: What if my family’s income changes after enrollment?
A: Income is locked at enrollment. Changes won’t affect eligibility.
Q3: Does the scholarship cover graduate school?
A: No—it’s for undergraduate degrees only.
Q4: How much does the 21st Century Scholarship pay for private schools?
A: Up to $9,984/year (2025 rate)—check your school’s “Scholar Rate.”
Q5: Can I lose the scholarship?
A: Yes. Falling below a 2.5 GPA or missing FAFSA deadlines risks cancellation.
Why the 21st Century Scholarship Changes Lives
Since 1990, this program has sent over 70,000 Hoosiers to college. Take 2024 recipient Jamal Carter: “Without this scholarship, I’d be working three jobs instead of studying engineering at Purdue.”
Conclusion: Your Future Starts in Middle School
The 21st Century Scholarship isn’t just a financial aid program—it’s a promise. By planning early, staying committed, and leveraging Scholar Track resources, you can graduate debt-free and ready to lead. Ready to begin?
P.S. Parents: Attend a virtual info session at scholars.in.gov to kickstart your child’s journey!