21st-Century

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History of 21st Century Scholars

A national model for student success, the 21st Century Scholars program has evolved over its 30-year history with one goal in mind—to get more Hoosiers into and through college with a degree.

Since 1990, Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program has helped thousands of low-income Hoosier students aspire to and afford a college education. The early-promise scholarship program goes beyond paying college tuition and fees, with clear expectations that prepare students for success beyond high school.

Scholars are required to keep their grades up, avoid drugs and alcohol, complete key college-readiness activities during high school, complete career and engagement activities while in college, and stay on track to earn their degrees on time.

Today the Scholars program is a national model for promoting student success, representing significant ongoing financial commitment by Indiana’s lawmakers and contributing to Indiana’s status as one of the most generous states in the nation for need-based student financial aid. As Indiana marks the 30th anniversary of the Scholars program, now is the time to reflect upon its growth, its impact on the lives of Hoosiers and the opportunities to make the program even stronger.