Since the beginning of the program in 1990, the Twenty-first Century Scholars GEAR UP Program has had a to increase high school and college graduation rates among moderate-to low-income students living in the state of Indiana.

Income-eligible 6th , 7th and 8th grade students that enroll in the program and fulfill a pledge of good citizenship are guaranteed the cost of four years of college tuition at any participating public college or university in Indiana. If they attend a private or independent institution, the state will award an amount comparable to that of a public institution. If they attend a participating proprietary (private career) school, the state will award a tuition scholarship equal to that of Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana.

But first you have to apply. Students and their parents must complete and return the application by June 30 of the 8th grade year. You can request applications for the Twenty-first Century Scholars Program from your school counselor or by calling the Learn More Indiana Helpline at 1-800-992-2076.

Learn more about the Twenty-first st Century Scholars Program

GEAR UP Scholarship

Twenty-first Century Scholar students are also eligible for the GEAR UP scholarship, which is a grant of up to $1,500 that pays for summer school tuition and regularly assessed course fees. It is for high school students going into their first year of college or college freshmen finishing their first year of college. To be considered, a student must complete an application; be an affirmed Scholar admitted to an eligible Indiana college; be enrolled full-time for the fall semester; and be enrolled in summer college preparatory or pre-requisite classes.

Learn more about GEAR UP