Affordable Options For College, Career Training
by CINDY LEDBETTER
State Representative, Newburgh
Whether graduating high school or changing careers later in life, the cost of college or training programs can weigh on the minds of Hoosiers when they take that first step toward their future. Fortunately, there are grants, scholarships and savings programs available to help with both immediate and long-term plans.
I’m currently pursuing my doctorate in nursing, and understand the financial stress facing many families. I used Indiana’s CollegeChoice 529 plan to help pay for college for myself and my daughter and saw an immediate return at tax time. The 529 Savings Plan helps families save for future education expenses like textbooks, computers, tuition and housing. Withdrawals are tax free. Indiana residents get a 20% tax credit on the first $5,000 they contribute every year, which means $1,000 come tax time. To sign up, visit collegechoicedirect.com.
Hoosier women returning to college after a hiatus, changing careers or seeking advancement at work can apply for a scholarship offered by the Political Organization for Women’s Education and Representation. A committee will award two scholarships from each congressional district of $750 each. Interested applicants can apply before the Nov. 15 deadline atinpowercaucus.org/powerscholarship.
For those planning ahead, thousands of low-income Hoosiers can receive up to four years of graduate tuition through Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program. Participants must enroll before June 30 of a student’s eighth-grade school year. To find out the requirements, visit scholars.in.gov.
Applications are also being accepted for the 2022-2023 Next Generation Hoosier Educator Scholarship, which pays $7,500 per year for up to four years to students earning a teaching degree and who commit to teaching in Indiana for five years. Future educators can apply at LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher before the Jan. 31 deadline.
Hoosiers can now file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid for the 2022-2023 school year, making them eligible for federal and state grants and financial aid. Visit studentaid.gov to apply before the April. 15 deadline.
College isn’t the only option. With Indiana’s Next Level Jobs initiative, Hoosiers can receive free training for high-paying, in-demand positions throughout the state. Workforce Ready Grants cover tuition costs as Hoosiers earn a high-value certificate from Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University. To learn about free training to gain sought-after skills, visitnextleveljobs.org.
As a single mother enrolled in nursing school, I’m thankful for the financial assistance I received, and hope others can benefit from these opportunities. To learn more about these and other resources, visit in.gov/che. Financial support helped me, and it can help you too.
