The 21st Century Scholars Program was introduced in 1990 by the State of Indiana as a method of raising the educational aspirations of low and moderate income families. The program seeks to ensure that all Indiana children are equipped with the tools to afford a college education. In 1995, the first group of 21st Century Scholars began enrollment at Indiana colleges and universities.

Income-eligible 7th and 8th graders who enroll in the program and fulfill a pledge of good citizenship to the state are guaranteed the cost of four years of college tuition at any participating public college or university in Indiana. Students who elect to attend a private institution will be awarded an amount comparable to that of a public institution. Scholars who choose to attend a participating proprietary school will receive a scholarship equal to the amount of tuition at Ivy Tech Community College.

Scholars Pledge:

• I will graduate with a high school diploma from a charter school, freeway school, or any other accredited Indiana public school (or seeking accreditation) by the Indiana Department of Education.
• I will participate in a program that helps me prepare for college.
• I will achieve a cumulative high school GPA of at least a 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 grade point scale.
• I will not use illegal drugs and alcohol or commit a crime or delinquent act.
• I will apply for admission to an eligible Indiana college, university, or proprietary institution as a high school senior.
• I will apply on time for state and federal student financial aid.

The 21st Century Scholars Program was established to:

• Increase the number of students entering college and other institutions of higher education.
• Decrease drug and alcohol use by encouraging higher educational pursuits.
• Decrease the number of students who withdraw from high school before graduation.
• Increase the number of students who are prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation.
• Increase individual economic productivity.
• Improve the overall quality of life for Indiana residents.

If you are a Scholar that is or will be a Vincennes University student, please contact the 21st Century Support Specialist, for general inquiries or questions at the Student Success Center, Learning Resource Center. (LRC) Room 152. 

For the 21st Century Scholars Program, visit http://www.in.gov/21stcenturyscholars.