What is Crossing the Finish Line?
Across the state, thousands of Indiana high school students are just a few credits away from earning a high-quality credential – and we’re committed to helping each of them cross the finish line into a future full of success. Through Indiana’s Crossing the Finish Line initiative, Hoosier students can complete their high-quality credential, technical certificate, or another short- or longer-term credential for free this summer!
Crossing the Finish Line provides free tuition and books (and covers fees!) at Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University for students who are just a few credits away from completing their credential. This allows students to:
- Save money,
- Pursue their goals, and
- Jumpstart a successful future!
Continuing the Momentum
In 2021, the state of Indiana launched the Crossing the Finish Line Initiative to increase postsecondary completions. During the first year of the program, Indiana was able to serve nearly 1,900 K-12 students from over 275 high schools, saving them and their families over $1.4 million in tuition/fee awards and textbooks. This includes over 700 total (additional) completions.
In 2022, 3,300 high school students from more than 335 high schools participated. Combined, these students earned nearly 1,400 total credential completions, saving students and families over $2.5 million and increasing each student’s educational attainment level.
To continue this positive momentum, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) – in partnership with the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet, Ivy Tech Community College and Vincennes University – are making this program available in summer 2023.
As a reminder, below is a list of frequently asked questions to help students get started today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I am eligible?
In early March, eligible students will be contacted directly by either Ivy Tech or Vincennes via email and postcard alerting them of their eligibility.
What expenses will be covered?
- Tuition,
- Fees,
- Books, and
- Certain other expenses, including transcript requests and CLEP tests.
When do classes begin?
Summer classes begin in June. Contact Ivy Tech and Vincennes directly to begin your registration today! You may also ask Ivy Tech about spring opportunities, if you are looking to get started sooner!