1. What are the current financial aid policies in Indiana for low-income students?

The current financial aid policies in Indiana for low-income students include:

1. Federal Aid Programs: Eligible low-income students can apply for federal aid programs such as the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and Federal Work-Study.

2. State Grants: Low-income students who are residents of Indiana can apply for state grants such as the Frank O’Bannon Grant and 21st Century Scholars Program.

3. Institutional Aid: Many colleges and universities in Indiana offer institutional aid to help cover the cost of tuition for low-income students. This can include need-based scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial assistance.

4. Private Scholarships: Low-income students can also apply for private scholarships offered by nonprofit organizations, corporations, community groups, and other entities in Indiana.

5. Tuition Waivers: Some colleges and universities in Indiana offer tuition waivers for low-income students who meet certain eligibility criteria.

6. Affordable Housing Options: Low-income college students in Indiana may also be eligible for affordable housing options through programs such as Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program.

7. Loan Forgiveness Programs: The state of Indiana offers loan forgiveness programs specifically designed to help low-income graduates from certain fields such as education, nursing, or public service professions pay off their student loans.

8. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): All low-income students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal and state aid programs.

9. Financial Counseling and Education: Some colleges and universities in Indiana offer financial counseling services to help low-income students manage their finances and make informed decisions about paying for college.

10. Partnership with Community Organizations: The state of Indiana collaborates with various community organizations to provide additional financial support to low-income students in the form of grants, scholarships, and other resources.

2. How does Indiana compare to other states in terms of inclusive financial aid policies?

Indiana has made significant progress in terms of inclusive financial aid policies, but there is still room for improvement. According to the Education Commission of the States’ 2020 report on state higher education finance, Indiana ranks 31st overall in terms of need-based financial aid availability for undergraduate students.

In comparison, states like New York, California, and Pennsylvania have more robust need-based financial aid programs that offer grants and scholarships to a larger percentage of their eligible students. These states also tend to offer more generous awards to low-income students.

However, Indiana does stand out for its performance-based funding model, which rewards colleges and universities based on metrics such as graduation rates and job placement after graduation. This approach can help incentivize schools to improve outcomes for traditionally underrepresented groups.

Additionally, Indiana has taken steps to make higher education more affordable through initiatives like the 21st Century Scholars program, which provides full-tuition scholarships to low-income students who meet certain eligibility requirements. The state also offers the Frank O’Bannon Grant, which provides need-based aid to low-income Hoosiers pursuing postsecondary education.

Overall, while Indiana may not be leading the pack in terms of inclusive financial aid policies compared to other states, it has implemented several initiatives aimed at making college more accessible and affordable for all students.

3. Proposals for expanding financial aid eligibility in Indiana: What are they and how effective would they be?

In early 2021, several proposals have been put forward to expand financial aid eligibility in Indiana. These proposals are aimed at increasing access to higher education for economically disadvantaged students and addressing the rising costs of tuition.

1. Increase Funding for State Need-Based Aid Programs
Governor Eric Holcomb’s proposed budget for 2022-23 includes a $22 million increase in state funding for need-based financial aid programs, such as the Frank O’Bannon Grant and 21st Century Scholarship. This increase would allow more low-income students to receive assistance with their college expenses.

Possible Effectiveness: This proposal would be effective in providing more financial support to low-income students, making it easier for them to afford college. However, it may not fully address the growing cost of tuition and may still leave some students without sufficient assistance.

2. Expand Eligibility Criteria for the Frank O’Bannon Grant
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education has proposed expanding eligibility criteria for the Frank O’Bannon Grant, which provides need-based aid to Indiana residents attending eligible colleges and universities in the state. Under this proposal, the income threshold would be raised from $50,000 to $60,000 per year and the maximum award amount would be increased from $9,500 to $10,000 per year.

Possible Effectiveness: This proposal could potentially increase access to financial aid for middle-income families who may have previously been ineligible. This could also help alleviate some of the burden on lower-income families who struggle to afford college expenses without substantial financial aid.

3. Create a “Last Dollar” Tuition Assistance Program
State Senator Eddie Melton has introduced legislation that would create a “last dollar” tuition assistance program for low- and middle-income students attending four-year public institutions in Indiana. Under this program, eligible students would receive financial aid that covers any remaining tuition costs after federal grants and other scholarships have been applied.

Possible Effectiveness: This program would be effective in ensuring that low-income students have their tuition costs fully covered, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for student loans. However, it may not address other expenses such as room and board, which can also be a significant burden on students and their families.

4. Increase Funding for Dual Credit Programs
Another proposal put forth by Governor Holcomb is to increase funding for dual credit programs, which allow high school students to earn college credits while still in high school. The idea behind this proposal is to decrease the overall cost of higher education by allowing students to earn credits at a lower cost while still in high school.

Possible Effectiveness: This proposal could help reduce the financial burden of college for some families by allowing students to enter college with earned credits, potentially shortening the time it takes to complete a degree and lowering overall costs. However, it may not directly address the issue of financial aid eligibility for those who cannot afford to pay for college without assistance.

Overall, these proposals show an effort by Indiana officials to expand access to higher education and increase affordability for all residents. While they may not completely solve the issue of rising tuition costs and financial aid limitations, they could provide valuable support to many families and help make higher education more accessible in Indiana.

4. How has recent legislation in Indiana addressed accessibility and affordability of higher education through financial aid?

In recent years, Indiana has implemented several pieces of legislation aimed at improving accessibility and affordability of higher education through financial aid. These include:

1) The Next Level Jobs program: This program provides workforce training grants to Indiana residents who enroll in high-demand degree programs or certification courses in fields such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Eligible students can receive up to $5,000 per year for tuition and other expenses.

2) Franklin College Free Tuition Guarantee: In 2019, Franklin College announced a new guarantee that covers all tuition costs for eligible Indiana students from families with an annual income of $50,000 or less. In addition, the college offers additional scholarships and grants to further reduce the cost of attendance for low-income students.

3) The Frank O’Bannon Grant Program: This need-based grant program provides financial aid to Indiana residents attending eligible public or private colleges in the state. The amount of the grant depends on factors such as family income and school attended.

4) The 21st Century Scholars Program: This program provides full-tuition scholarships to qualifying low-income Indiana students who pledge to graduate from high school with a minimum GPA, complete a specific college-prep curriculum, and meet other requirements during their time in college.

5) The Hoosier Graduation Student Loan Repayment Program: Introduced in 2019, this program offers loan repayment assistance of up to $5,000 per year for four years for eligible graduates who are employed in critical shortage jobs in Indiana.

Overall, these efforts have aimed to make higher education more accessible and affordable for Indiana residents from diverse backgrounds.

5. Is there any specific financial aid program in Indiana that supports non-traditional or minority students?

Yes, there are several financial aid programs in Indiana that specifically support non-traditional and minority students. Some of these include:

1. Indiana Minority Teacher Scholarship: This scholarship is available for minority students who are pursuing a degree in education and planning to teach in an Indiana public school after graduation.

2. Adult Student Grant: This grant is designed for non-traditional students who are at least 18 years old and returning to college after being out of school for at least two years.

3. Frank O’Bannon Grant: This need-based grant is available for low-income students, including minorities, who are attending an eligible college or university in Indiana.

4. 21st Century Scholars Program: This program provides full-tuition scholarships to eligible low-income students who complete the program requirements during high school.

5. Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving students who commit to teaching in an Indiana classroom after graduation.

6. William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship: This scholarship is available for minority students pursuing a degree in education and planning to teach in an Indiana public school upon graduation.

7. Diversity Advancement Scholarships: These scholarships are offered by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Indianapolis chapter to minority students pursuing a degree in architecture from an accredited school in Indiana.

It’s important for non-traditional and minority students to research and apply for these and other financial aid opportunities that may be available to them in order to make higher education more affordable.

6. What efforts have been made by lawmakers in Indiana to ensure equal distribution of financial aid resources among colleges and universities?

The Indiana Commission for Higher Education oversees the state’s financial aid programs and has implemented several initiatives to ensure equal distribution of resources among colleges and universities. These include:

1. Need-based Aid Programs: The commission administers several need-based aid programs, such as the Frank O’Bannon Grant, 21st Century Scholarship Program, and the Student-Supported Search for Excellence Program, which are awarded based on a student’s financial need rather than the institution they attend.

2. Performance-Based Funding: In 2013, Indiana adopted a performance-based funding model for distributing state funds to public colleges and universities. This model allocates a portion of state funds based on an institution’s success in meeting specific outcomes, such as graduation rates and number of low-income or minority students served.

3. Income-Share Agreement Program: In 2020, the commission launched the “Your Plan Your Way” program which allows students to enter into income-share agreements (ISAs) with private investors to fund their education. This program aims to provide more equitable access to higher education by spreading out the cost of tuition across multiple years rather than providing a lump sum grant or loan at the beginning of enrollment.

4. Transparency in Financial Aid Data: The commission regularly publishes data on how financial aid resources are being distributed across institutions in order to promote transparency and accountability in the allocation process.

5. Targeted Outreach Efforts: The commission also conducts targeted outreach efforts to inform low-income and underrepresented students about available financial aid resources and help them navigate the application process.

Overall, these efforts demonstrate a commitment from lawmakers in Indiana to promote equal distribution of financial aid resources among colleges and universities in order to increase access to higher education for all students regardless of their socioeconomic background or institutional choice.

7. Are undocumented students eligible for financial aid under current laws in Indiana ?

Yes, undocumented students can be eligible for financial aid in Indiana under certain conditions.

Firstly, undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid programs such as Pell Grants and federal loans. However, they may still be able to receive state financial aid and scholarships depending on the individual state’s policies.

In Indiana, undocumented students who have lived in the state for at least three years and have graduated from an Indiana high school may be eligible for state financial aid through the Frank O’Bannon Grant program. This grant provides funding for tuition and fees at participating universities and colleges in Indiana.

Additionally, some private institutions in Indiana may offer scholarships or institutional aid specifically for undocumented students. It is important to research and contact individual schools to inquire about their financial aid opportunities for undocumented students.

Furthermore, there are also external scholarship opportunities available for undocumented students through organizations such as TheDream.US and United We Dream.

Overall, while federal financial aid is not available to undocumented students in Indiana, there are still options available for them to receive financial assistance for pursuing higher education.

8. What is the maximum amount of state-funded financial aid a student can receive in Indiana?

The maximum amount of state-funded financial aid a student can receive in Indiana varies depending on the specific program and eligibility criteria. However, some common types of state-funded financial aid include:

1. Indiana Frank O’Bannon Grant: This grant provides up to $9,000 per year to eligible Indiana residents attending eligible public or private colleges and universities in the state.
2. 21st Century Scholars Program: This program provides tuition scholarships to low-income students who meet certain academic requirements and pledge to fulfill certain obligations such as maintaining a minimum GPA.
3. Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship: This scholarship provides up to $7,500 per year to high-achieving high school seniors or college students pursuing a career in education.
4. Workforce Ready Grant: This grant covers all remaining tuition and mandatory fees for Hoosiers seeking training in high-demand fields at eligible Ivy Tech Community College programs.

It is important to note that each program has its own specific eligibility requirements and award amounts may vary each year depending on the availability of funds. Ultimately, the maximum amount a student can receive will depend on their individual circumstances and the funding available for each program. Students are encouraged to research and apply for all available state-funded financial aid programs for which they may qualify.

9. How do state-level policies impact student loan debt for graduates in Indiana?

State-level policies can have a significant impact on student loan debt for graduates in Indiana. These policies include funding for higher education, tuition rates, and programs that aim to reduce or provide assistance with student loans.

1. Funding for Higher Education: The amount of state funding allocated to colleges and universities in Indiana can greatly influence the cost of attendance and ultimately, the amount of student loan debt students are left with after graduation. When states provide more funding to their institutions, it can help keep tuition costs down, making college more affordable for students and reducing the need for taking out large loans.

2. Tuition Rates: State-level policies also determine how much public colleges and universities in Indiana can charge for tuition. If state officials approve large tuition increases, it may become necessary for students to take out larger loans to cover their expenses. Conversely, if tuition rates remain stable or decrease, students may not need to borrow as much to finance their education.

3. Loan Forgiveness Programs: Some states offer loan forgiveness programs to incentivize graduates to stay in the state after graduation. These programs typically forgive a portion of a graduate’s student loan debt each year they remain in the state working in a designated profession or underserved area. In Indiana, there are several loan forgiveness programs aimed at retaining healthcare professionals and teachers within the state.

4. Low-Interest Loans: Some states have created programs that offer low-interest loans or interest-free loans to eligible students who demonstrate financial need. These types of programs can make it easier for graduates to repay their loans by reducing interest payments over time.

5. Financial Aid Policies: States also play a role in determining financial aid policies for students attending college in Indiana. This includes eligibility requirements and the types of aid available, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Adequate financial aid packages can help reduce the overall cost of education for students and potentially lessen the need for borrowing.

6. Consumer Protections: Some states have implemented consumer protection laws that aim to regulate private student loan lenders and servicers. These measures can help protect borrowers from predatory practices and ensure that they are given clear and accurate information about their loans.

In summary, state-level policies can have a significant impact on the amount of student loan debt graduates in Indiana are burdened with. By implementing measures such as funding for higher education, loan forgiveness programs, low-interest loans, and consumer protections, state officials can help alleviate the financial strain of student loans on graduates in their state.

10. Has there been any recent legislation proposed to address the rising cost of college tuition and its impact on low-income students inIndiana?

There does not appear to be any recent legislative proposals specifically focused on addressing the rising cost of college tuition and its impact on low-income students in Indiana. However, there have been some bills introduced in the past few years that would aim to make college more accessible and affordable for all students, including those from low-income backgrounds.

In 2019, House Bill 1210 was introduced, which would establish a tuition-free program for eligible Indiana residents to attend an Indiana public college or university. The program would cover the remainder of tuition costs after federal aid, state grants, and scholarships have been applied. This could potentially help reduce the financial burden on low-income students.

Additionally, in 2018 Senate Bill 255 was proposed, which would require all state colleges and universities to establish policies allowing students to lock in their tuition rate for four consecutive years. This could provide more stability and predictability for low-income students who may struggle with fluctuating tuition costs.

It should also be noted that the Indiana Commission for Higher Education has implemented several initiatives aimed at increasing affordability and accessibility for low-income students, such as providing need-based financial aid through programs like the Frank O’Bannon Grant and Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship.

Overall, while there may not be specific legislation solely focused on addressing this issue currently being proposed in Indiana, there are efforts being made to address college affordability and accessibility as a whole.

11. Do proposed changes to federal financial aid policies have any implications for students in Indiana?

Yes, proposed changes to federal financial aid policies could have various implications for students in Indiana. Some of these potential implications may include:

1. Impact on college affordability: Changes to federal financial aid policies, particularly those that affect the availability or amount of grants and loans, could impact the overall affordability of attending college for students in Indiana. This could make it more difficult for some students to afford the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses.

2. Changes to eligibility requirements: Proposed changes to federal financial aid policies could also modify the eligibility requirements for different types of aid programs. This could affect whether certain students in Indiana are eligible for specific forms of assistance, potentially limiting their access to funding.

3. Effects on state financial aid programs: Many states, including Indiana, offer their own financial aid programs in addition to federal aid. Changes to federal policies could impact the availability or structure of these state programs as well, potentially affecting students who rely on both federal and state funding for their education.

4. Impact on international students: International students studying in Indiana may be affected by proposed changes to federal financial aid policies if they are currently receiving or hoping to receive federal grants or loans. These changes could also influence whether international students choose to pursue their education in the United States.

5. Potential changes in loan repayment options: Federal student loan borrowers in Indiana may be impacted by proposed changes that modify the terms and conditions for repaying their loans. This could include changes in interest rates, repayment plans, forgiveness options, and other factors that affect how much money borrowers must pay back and how long they have to do so.

6. Shifts in educational program choices: If certain types of financial aid become more or less available under proposed policy modifications, this could lead some Indiana students to choose different educational paths that are more aligned with the resources available at a given time.

7. Effects on college enrollment rates: Changes to federal financial aid policies may also have an impact on enrollment rates at colleges and universities in Indiana. For instance, if federal grants or loans become more difficult to secure, some students may choose not to attend college or may drop out before finishing their degree.

Overall, any proposed changes to federal financial aid policies could have wide-ranging implications for students in Indiana. It is important for students and families in the state to stay informed about potential policy changes and how they could affect their ability to pay for higher education.

12. Are there any specific resources or programs available to assist first-generation students with navigating the financial aid process in Indiana?

Yes, there are several resources and programs available to assist first-generation students with navigating the financial aid process in Indiana.

1. Indiana College Success Coalition: This coalition is dedicated to helping first-generation and low-income students navigate the college application and financial aid process. They offer workshops, counseling, and other resources to help students understand their options for paying for college.

2. Youth Opportunity Center: The Youth Opportunity Center offers free financial aid assistance for first-generation students in Indiana. They provide one-on-one counseling, workshops, and other resources to help students understand the financial aid process and find ways to fund their education.

3. Indiana Commission for Higher Education: This state agency offers several resources to help first-generation students with financial aid, including a guide on how to apply for scholarships and information about state-specific financial aid programs.

4. Steps to College: This program provides online tools and resources for first-generation students in Indiana to help them navigate the college application and financial aid process.

5. Get Schooled Indiana: Get Schooled is a national nonprofit organization that offers free resources to help high school students plan for college and secure financial aid. They have a specific page dedicated to helping first-generation students in Indiana navigate the financial aid process.

6. Federal Student Aid Information Center: Run by the U.S Department of Education, this center provides free assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students can call, email, or chat with representatives who can answer questions about federal student loans and grants.

7. Financial Aid Workshops: Many colleges in Indiana offer workshops specifically designed for first-generation students to learn more about the financial aid process. Check with your school’s admissions office or guidance counselor for information on upcoming workshops.

8. Local Community Organizations: There may be community organizations or nonprofits in your area that offer assistance with navigating the financial aid process. These may include mentoring programs or college access organizations that work with first-generation students.

Overall, it is important for first-generation students to reach out to their school counselors, college admissions offices, and community organizations for resources and support. These programs are designed to help students overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational goals.

13. Have there been any successful collaborations between private donors and state government to increase access to financial aid for low-income students inIndiana?

Yes, there have been successful collaborations between private donors and the state government in Indiana to increase access to financial aid for low-income students. For example, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education has partnered with private organizations like the Lumina Foundation and Lilly Endowment to create scholarship programs that provide financial assistance to low-income students.

One successful collaboration is the 21st Century Scholars program, which was created through a partnership between the Indiana state government and the Lilly Endowment. This program provides full-tuition scholarships to eligible low-income students who meet certain academic requirements. Additionally, the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship program was established through a partnership between the Indiana Department of Education and private donors. This program aims to address teacher shortages by providing scholarships to high-achieving students who commit to teaching inIndiana schools after graduation.

Furthermore, private donors have also contributed funding to state-run financial aid programs such as the Frank O’Bannon Grant and the Evan Bayh 21st Century Scholars Program, which provide need-based grants and scholarships to low-income students attendingIndiana colleges and universities.

In addition to these specific collaborations, there are ongoing efforts by both private donors and state officials inIndiana to increase access to financial aid for low-income students. The Indiana College Promise campaign, for example, is a partnership between state agencies, philanthropic organizations, businesses, and nonprofits that aims to raise awareness about financial aid options and increase college enrollment for low-income students inIndiana.

Overall, these collaborations between private donors and the state government have played a crucial role in expanding access to financial aid for low-income students inIndiana.

14. In what ways has technology been utilized by policymakers in Indiana to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the financial aid system?

1. Online FAFSA: Indiana has implemented an online FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form, making it easier and more accessible for students to apply for financial aid.

2. Electronic Transcript Exchange: The state of Indiana has established a statewide electronic transcript exchange system, allowing high schools and colleges to securely and efficiently share student transcripts.

3. Data Sharing: The Indiana Commission for Higher Education partners with the Indiana Department of Education, the National Student Clearinghouse, and other agencies to collect comprehensive data on enrollment, graduation rates, and student loan debt. This information is used to inform policy decisions on financial aid allocation and program effectiveness.

4. Automated Award Letters: Many colleges in Indiana use automated award letter systems that provide personalized estimates of financial aid packages based on individual student data.

5. Virtual Advising Tools: Indiana has developed virtual advising tools such as “CashCourse” which provides online financial education resources to help students make informed decisions about paying for college.

6. Online Scholarship Management System: The state has implemented a centralized online scholarship management system that allows students to search and apply for scholarships from participating colleges and universities in one place.

7. State Financial Aid Portal: The state of Indiana has created a centralized online portal where students can view their financial aid awards from multiple participating institutions simultaneously.

8. Mobile Apps: Some colleges in Indiana have introduced mobile apps that give students access to important financial aid information on-the-go, including deadlines, application status, and award updates.

9. Text Messaging Services: Some institutions use text messaging services to communicate important deadlines, reminders and updates related to financial aid with students.

10. Virtual Financial Aid Office: Some universities have created virtual financial aid offices that allow students to connect with advisors remotely through email or video conferencing platforms.

11. Online Workshops/Seminars: The state offers online workshops and seminars on various topics related to financial aid such as filling out the FAFSA, understanding student loans, and managing finances.

12. Online Chat Support: Many universities offer online chat support to students for immediate assistance with financial aid inquiries.

13. Online Resource Library: The Indiana Commission for Higher Education has created an online resource library that provides information and resources on financial aid, scholarships, grants, and student loans.

14. Social Media Outreach: State agencies and institutions utilize social media platforms to reach out to students and provide them with important updates and information related to financial aid policies and deadlines.

15. How have state-level politicians addressed the issue of socioeconomic diversity among student bodies through financial aid policies?[City]

State-level politicians have addressed the issue of socioeconomic diversity among student bodies through various financial aid policies aimed at promoting access to higher education for students from low-income families. These policies vary by state but some common approaches include:

1. Need-based Financial Aid: Many states offer need-based financial aid programs that offer grants or scholarships to students from low-income families. Eligibility for these programs is often based on a student’s family income and assets, as well as their academic record.

2. Tuition-Free or Low-Cost Programs: Some states have implemented tuition-free or low-cost college programs, such as New York’s Excelsior Scholarship and California’s Cal Grant program, which cover tuition costs for eligible students from low-income families.

3. Merit-Based Aid with Income Thresholds: Some states provide merit-based aid, such as scholarships or grants, to high-achieving students from low-income families who may not qualify for need-based aid.

4. Automatic Admission or Lower Admissions Standards: A few states have implemented policies that automatically admit students from low-income families who meet certain criteria, such as Texas’ Top 10% Rule which guarantees admission to any public university in the state for students in the top 10% of their high school class.

5. Partnership Programs with Colleges and Universities: Several states have established partnership programs between colleges and universities and local school districts to recruit and support low-income students in pursuing higher education.

Overall, these financial aid policies aim to increase the enrollment of low-income students in colleges and universities and promote greater socioeconomic diversity among student bodies at public institutions. However, there is ongoing debate about the effectiveness and equity of these policies in achieving these goals.

16.What initiatives has the government ofIndiana taken towards promoting college access and affordability through need-based grants?

1. Indiana Higher Education Award Program:
The state of Indiana offers the Higher Education Award program, which provides need-based grants to eligible students from low-income families. The grant amount varies based on the student’s financial need and can cover up to 100% of tuition and mandatory fees at participating colleges and universities in Indiana.

2. 21st Century Scholars Program:
Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars Program is a statewide initiative that helps income-eligible students attend college by providing them with up to four years of scholarship money for tuition and fees. Students must sign up for the program in middle school and meet certain requirements throughout high school to be eligible.

3. Frank O’Bannon Grant:
The Frank O’Bannon Grant is the state’s largest need-based financial aid program, providing support to eligible undergraduates attending public or private institutions in Indiana. The grant amount is determined by a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) as calculated from their FAFSA.

4. Community College Tuition Support:
In an effort to make community college more affordable, Indiana has implemented the Next Level Jobs Employers & Training service through the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet. This program offers funding for employer training and community college tuition support for students pursuing credentials in fields deemed high-demand by employers.

5. Student Financial Aid Database:
Indiana has a comprehensive Student Financial Aid Database that allows students to access information about state financial aid programs, scholarship opportunities, and other resources for financing their education.

6. Affordable Dual Credit Opportunities:
The state has created policies to encourage dual credit programs, which allow high school students to earn college credit while still in high school at a reduced cost. This makes higher education more accessible by reducing the overall cost of obtaining a degree.

7. Support for Part-Time Students:
Indiana offers part-time grants through its Part-Time Grant Program aimed at supporting workforce development efforts, making it easier for working adults to afford higher education.

8. Non-Traditional Aid:
The state also provides Non-Traditional Aid to students who do not qualify for traditional need-based aid but still demonstrate financial need.

9. College Goal Sunday:
Indiana participates in College Goal Sunday, a statewide initiative that provides free assistance to families in filling out the FAFSA and other financial aid forms, making the process more accessible for first-generation and low-income students.

10. Financial Aid Tools and Resources:
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education offers a variety of tools and resources on its website to help students navigate the financial aid process and make informed decisions about college affordability.

17.What is the current status of proposed legislation aiming to increase funding for state-sponsored scholarships and grants in Indiana?

As of October 2021, there have been various bills introduced in the Indiana General Assembly that aim to increase funding for state-sponsored scholarships and grants. However, none of these bills have been passed into law yet.

One such bill, House Bill 1446, proposes to establish an Indiana Opportunity Scholarship and increase funding for other existing state-funded scholarships and grants. Another bill, Senate Bill 172, seeks to create a Need-Based Student Financial Aid program and increase funding for the Frank O’Bannon Grant.

Both of these bills have seen some progress in the legislative process. HB 1446 was passed by the House of Representatives in February 2021 and is currently awaiting action from the Senate. SB 172 was referred to the Committee on Higher Education in January 2021 but has not yet received a vote.

In addition to these bills, Governor Eric Holcomb has also proposed increased funding for state-sponsored scholarships and grants in his budget proposal for fiscal year 2022-2023. This includes a $5 million increase for the Frank O’Bannon Grant program and a $2 million increase for the Child of Veteran and Public Safety Officer Supplemental Grant.

Overall, while there is momentum towards increasing funding for state-sponsored scholarships and grants in Indiana, it is still unclear when or if any specific legislation will be enacted into law.

18.How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected current financial aid policies in Indiana and what is being done to support students during this time?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on current financial aid policies in Indiana. Many students and families have faced financial challenges due to job loss, reduced household income, and unexpected expenses related to the pandemic. This has left many students struggling to afford their education.

To support students during this time, the state of Indiana has taken several steps:

1. CARES Act funding: The CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act provided emergency relief funds for higher education institutions in Indiana. These funds can be used to provide emergency grants to eligible students who have been impacted by COVID-19.

2. Flexibility for financial aid requirements: The U.S. Department of Education has allowed universities to make temporary changes to certain financial aid requirements, such as waiving or relaxing work-study eligibility, adjusting eligibility calculations based on changes in family income, and extending deadlines for completing verification processes.

3. Expanded unemployment benefits: The federal government has expanded unemployment benefits during the pandemic, which may help some students cover their college expenses if they’ve lost their job or experienced reduced hours.

4. Institutional aid programs: Many colleges and universities in Indiana have also created their own emergency aid programs to assist students with unexpected expenses related to COVID-19.

5. Virtual financial aid counseling: With campuses transitioning to online learning and services, many schools are offering virtual financial aid counseling sessions for students who need assistance navigating the application process or understanding their financial aid options.

6. Increased scholarship opportunities: In response to the pandemic’s impact on students’ finances, numerous scholarship organizations have increased their funding or created new scholarships specifically for those affected by COVID-19.

The state of Indiana is also continuously monitoring updates from the federal government and implementing any policies that may provide additional support for students during this challenging time.

19.How does Indiana prioritize financial aid for students pursuing high-demand or high-cost degrees such as STEM or healthcare?

Indiana prioritizes financial aid for students pursuing high-demand or high-cost degrees in several ways.

1. Indiana offers scholarships specifically for students pursuing STEM or healthcare fields. The state’s primary scholarship program, the Frank O’Bannon Grant, provides award amounts that vary based on the student’s field of study. Students studying STEM fields can receive up to $9,000 per year, while those studying other fields receive a maximum of $8,000 per year.

2. The state also offers grants and scholarships for specific high-demand occupations, such as teaching or nursing. These programs often have specific eligibility requirements and may cover full or partial tuition costs for students who commit to working in the targeted field after graduation.

3. Indiana has established initiatives to increase enrollment and success in STEM-related degrees at its public universities. This includes the W.E.B Du Bois Scholars Institute-Indiana, which provides summer programming for underrepresented minority students interested in science and technology fields.

4. Indiana also has a program called You Can Go Back that is designed to help adults who have completed some college coursework but have not yet earned a degree return to school and complete a high-demand certificate or degree program.

5. In addition to financial aid programs, Indiana also offers resources such as career counseling and job placement assistance to help students pursue careers in high-demand or high-cost fields after graduation.

20.What steps have been taken by lawmakers in Indiana to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution of state-funded financial aid?

1. Creation of a Commission for Higher Education: The Indiana Commission for Higher Education was established to oversee and coordinate financial aid distribution in the state.

2. Requirement of Need-Based Aid: All state-funded financial aid programs in Indiana are required to be based on financial need, as determined by federal regulations.

3. Prioritizing Low-Income Students: Indiana’s primary need-based grant program, Frank O’Bannon Grant, prioritizes students from low-income families.

4. Annual Reporting Requirements: Institutions receiving state funding are required to report annually on their financial aid policies and recipient demographics.

5. Student Information System: A statewide student information system was developed to track individual student data, including financial aid awards and enrollment status.

6. Performance-Based Funding: A portion of state funding for institutions is tied to performance metrics such as retention and completion rates, providing incentives for schools to increase transparency and accountability in their use of financial aid funds.

7. Verification Process: In order to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud, the state employs a robust verification process that requires institutions to verify the income and demographic information provided by students on their financial aid applications.

8. Oversight by State Audit Agency: The State Board of Accounts audits the use of state funds by higher education institutions, including their financial aid programs.

9. Financial Aid Disclosure Requirements: Institutions receiving state funding must provide comprehensive information about the cost of attendance and all available forms of financial aid, as well as any restrictions or requirements associated with such aid.

10. Review and Evaluation Processes: Regular reviews and evaluations are conducted by the Commission for Higher Education and other oversight agencies to ensure that state-funded financial aid programs are effectively meeting their intended goals.