Indiana Financial Aid
State grants, eligibility, deadlines, and strategies for Indiana students
Indiana offers strong need-based aid through the Frank O'Bannon Grant and the 21st Century Scholars program, which provides full tuition for low-income students who enroll in middle school and fulfill a pledge. Indiana is known as one of the top states for need-based aid funding.
Indiana grant programs
Frank O'Bannon Grant (Higher Education Award & Freedom of Choice Award)
Need-basedUp to approximately $11,000/year at public institutions; up to approximately $12,400/year at private institutions
Eligibility
- Indiana resident
- Demonstrate financial need via FAFSA
- Enrolled full-time at an eligible Indiana college or university
- U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
Deadline: FAFSA filing deadline: April 15
Official info →21st Century Scholars Program
Need-basedUp to full tuition and fees at eligible Indiana public and private institutions
Eligibility
- Indiana resident enrolled in the program by June 30 of 8th grade year
- Family income eligible for free or reduced-price lunch at time of enrollment
- Complete the Scholar Success Program requirements
- Graduate from an Indiana high school with a 2.5+ GPA
- File the FAFSA
Deadline: Enroll by end of 8th grade; fulfill requirements through high school
Official info →Tips for maximising Indiana aid
The 21st Century Scholars program is essentially a full-ride for low-income Hoosier students — if you have younger siblings in middle school, get them enrolled before the 8th-grade deadline.
Indiana's April 15 FAFSA deadline is firm — submit well before this date as late applications will not be considered for state aid.
Indiana allows state aid at both public and private institutions — the Freedom of Choice Award adds extra funding for students attending private schools.
Educational guide only. State aid programs, amounts, and deadlines change annually. Always verify current information directly with Indiana Commission for Higher Education (CHE) and your college's financial aid office before making decisions.
Put this into action
Find colleges in Indiana that fit your budget, or learn more about the FAFSA process.