Common Questions

• Admissions & Getting Started

  Admissions & Getting Started

  • What are the admission requirements? Is there an application deadline?
    • Ivy Tech has open admissions, so no minimum GPA or test scores are needed. If you're pursuing a degree, just provide your high school or GED info. Some programs, like nursing, may have extra requirements.
    • Nope—there’s no set deadline to apply! Ivy Tech offers multiple start dates throughout the year, so you can jump in when you're ready. That said, it’s smart to apply as early as possible to make sure you have time to finish everything before classes begin.
  • How do I apply? What documents do I need?
    • It’s quick and easy—just head to ivytech.edu/applynow and fill out the application (it only takes about 10–15 minutes). You’ll need to confirm your identity (with a government-issued photo ID) and provide some basic info like your high school and any previous colleges you’ve attended. You’ll receive your acceptance email in 1-2 business days, as well as a physical packet in the mail from Ivy Tech after 7-10 business days.
    • Here’s what you’ll want to have handy when you apply:

    - A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity

    - Your email address – personal email address is preferred

    - Emergency contact info

    - Social Security Number (if you have one)

    - Your high school/GED info*

    - Any college transcripts, if you’ve taken college classes before*

    *If you don’t have your transcripts or test scores at application time, you can upload them later (by the end of the term for which you applied).

  • Is there an application fee?
    • Good news—applying to Ivy Tech is completely free. There’s no application fee at all.
  • Do I need to take placement tests? What are they for?
    • Maybe. Ivy Tech uses placement info to help figure out which English and math classes are the best fit for you. If you’ve taken the SAT, ACT, or PSAT recently—or if you have a high school GPA or prior college credit—you might not need a placement test. If you do, you’ll take something called the Knowledge Assessment, which is free and can even help you skip developmental classes. More information on placement tests can be found here.
  • How do I register for classes?
    • Once you’re admitted and complete the enrollment steps (like course placement, financial aid, and advising), you’ll register through MyIvy, Ivy Tech’s student portal. You’ll use Schedule Builder, an online tool for class registration, to plan out your classes, and an advisor or Enrollment Specialist can help if you’re not sure what to take.
  • Is there an orientation for new students?
    • Yes! Ivy Tech has a New Student Orientation that helps you get started. You’ll learn how to navigate MyIvy, get connected with campus resources, and understand what to expect in your classes. Some orientations are online, and others might be on campus—it depends on your location.
  • What's the New Student Checklist?
    • Think of the New Student Checklist as your personal to-do list for getting started. It includes things like:

    - Applying for financial aid

    - Completing placement or uploading transcripts

    - Registering for orientation

    - Picking your classes

    - Paying tuition

    • You can find other helpful resources in your MyIvy account once you're accepted.
• Costs & Financial Aid

  Costs & Financial Aid

  • How much does tuition cost? Are there additional fees?
    • If you are an Indiana resident attending part-time (under 12 credit hours, or roughly three or fewer classes), your tuition will be $178.38. If you are going to school full-time (12 credit hours or more), you'll pay a flat tuition rate of $2,577.11 per semester.
    • If you are an out-of-state resident attending part-time (under 12 credit hours, or roughly three or fewer classes), your tuition will be $348.97. If you are going to school full-time (12 credit hours or more), you'll pay a flat tuition rate of $4967.51 per semester.
    • Additional fees: Some of your classes will include additional costs, such as lab fees, program-specific costs, transcript requests, and more. Learn more about the total cost of attendance here. 
  • Are textbooks included in tuition, or are they separate?
    • Textbooks aren’t part of tuition, but Ivy Tech offers a cost-saving option:
    • Under the  Tuition & Textbooks initiative, most required textbooks cost just $18 per credit hour. You’ll get all your books upfront with predictable pricing.
  • Are payment plans available?
    • Yes! You can:

    - Set up a payment plan in MyIvy

    - Split your tuition into smaller, manageable payments

    - Just make sure to enroll before your payment deadline

    • Learn more about payment plans and how to enroll here.
  • How do I apply for help paying for college?
    • Start by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at FAFSA.gov. Use Ivy Tech’s school code: 009917
    • You could qualify for:

    - Federal and state grants

    - Scholarships

    - Work-study programs

    - Federal student loans

    • Need help? Ivy Tech offers events like Tuesdays@TheTech to walk you through it.
    • In addition to federal and state aid, be sure to explore:

    - Ivy Tech institutional scholarships

    - State-funded programs

    - External scholarships from community organizations and employers

  • What's the FAFSA deadline?
    • To be considered for state financial aid in Indiana, submit your FAFSA by April 15.

    - Ivy Tech’s suggests starting the financial aid process by:

    - Summer term: April 1

    - Fall I (first 8 weeks): June 1

    - Fall II (second 8 weeks): August 1

    - Spring I (first 8 weeks): November 1

    - Spring II (second 8 weeks): January 1

    • If you need help, Ivy Tech is here to help. Stop by your local Ivy Tech campus any time for one-on-one assistance or join us during a Tuesdays@TheTech event.
  • What type of scholarships are available specifically for community college students?
    • There are several scholarships specifically for community college students, including:

    - Lilly Scholars at Ivy Tech – Covers tuition, textbooks, fees, and certification exams

    - Nina Scholars Program – Covers tuition and some living expenses for students who have navigated personal challenges with limited access to family, and/or financial support

    - Teresa Lubbers Next Step Scholarship – Can be applied to any eligible college expense

    - Institutional and external scholarships – Many available through Ivy Tech and outside organizations

    • Use our Scholarship Finder to see other scholarships you may be eligible for. Your local campus may also know about even more scholarship opportunities and deadlines.
  • How does the 21st Century Scholars program work in Indiana?
    • If you enrolled in the 21st Century Scholars program back in 7th or 8th grade and met all the requirements, you can receive:

    - 100% coverage of Ivy Tech tuition and fees (up to 30 credits per academic year)

    - You’ll need to file the FAFSA each year by April 15th and maintain progress toward your degree

    - The scholarship doesn’t cover textbooks, but Ivy Tech’s  Tuition & Textbooks initiative helps lower those costs

    • Read more about 21st Century Scholars 
• Programs & Classes

  Programs & Classes

  • What academic programs do you offer?
    • Ivy Tech offers over 70+ programs across a wide range of fields—everything from healthcare and IT to business, education, advanced manufacturing, and more.
    • You can choose from certificates (short-term programs focusing on specific skills), technical certificates (specialized training in technical fields), and associate degrees (two-year academic programs that can lead to a career or further education). Learn more about these options 
    • Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly or transfer to a four-year college, there’s a program that fits.
  • Which programs transfer well to four-year universities?
    • If your goal is a bachelor’s degree, Ivy Tech has you covered with lots of options designed to transfer smoothly to Indiana’s four-year colleges and universities.
    • Some even come with Guaranteed Admissions, meaning you’re automatically accepted into a partner university after completing your associate degree (as long as you meet the requirements). Academic advisors can help you build a plan that transfers your credits the right way.
  • How long will it take to complete my degree or certificate?
    • It depends on the program and your schedule, but here’s a general idea:

    - Associate degrees take about 2 years (4 semesters) if you attend full-time

    - Certificates and technical certificates can take as little as 1–3 semesters

    - Ivy Tech also offers accelerated programs like ASAP that let you finish an associate degree in as little as 11 months

    • Many students also take part-time classes while working or raising a family, which can make the timeline more flexible.
    •  Compare certificates versus degree pathways here.
  • Do you offer online or evening classes?
    • Yes! Ivy Tech offers a wide range of online classes, and some programs are available fully online. There are also evening and weekend class options so you can balance school with work, family, or other responsibilities.
    • If flexibility is a top priority, talk to an advisor about  programs or IvyAccelerate options designed for busy adults.
  • What academic support services are available?
    • There’s a lot of support available to help you succeed:

    - Free tutoring for most subjects

    - Academic advising to help you stay on track with your goals

    - Disability support services

    - Testing services for exams and placement

    - TRIO programs for first-generation college students or those with limited income

    - IvyCares – a resource hub for help with transportation, food, housing, and more

    • Each campus also has its own support centers and student success programs—so you’re never on your own.
  • Do you have career counseling to help me choose a program?
    • Yes! Ivy Tech offers free, one-on-one career coaching through  Career Link. If you’re not sure about a major or what to study—or want to make sure your program lines up with your career goals—they’re here to help. They can also help you:

    - Explore careers based on your interests and workplace values

    - Create an action plan to help accomplish your education and career goals

    - Build a resume

    - Practice for interviews

    - Find internships or job opportunities through HireIvy

    • Whether you’re just starting or getting ready to graduate, they’re a great resource for planning your future.
• Transfer Information

  Transfer Information

  • Which Indiana universities accept your credits?
    • Most public Indiana universities accept Ivy Tech credits — especially if you complete a TSAP (Transfer as a Junior) degree. You’ll enter as a junior in a related bachelor’s program. More details on transfer options can be found here. 
    • Ivy Tech also has Guaranteed Admission agreements—meaning you’re automatically accepted!—with schools like:

    Indiana University (all campuses)

    Purdue (regional campuses)

    Ball State

    Indiana State University, Vincennes University, and more

  • Do you have transfer agreements with specific schools?
    • Yes. Ivy Tech has transfer agreements and Guaranteed Admissions Pathways with multiple Indiana colleges. These agreements clearly outline:

    - Which programs transfer

    - What GPA or grades you need

    - What credits count toward your bachelor’s degree

    •  View all transfer agreements
  • How do I know which classes will transfer to another institution?
    • Start by choosing a TSAP (Transfer as a Junior) or transfer-designated program. Then:

    - Work with an Ivy Tech advisor or transfer advocate

    - Follow the course plan laid out in your program

    - Stay in the same field when you transfer

  • What is the Transfer Single Articulation Pathway (TSAP) in Indiana?
    • TSAP (Transfer as a Junior) is an Indiana program that lets you:

    - Complete a specific Ivy Tech associate degree

    - Transfer to any public Indiana university

    - Start as a junior in the same major

    • You must meet GPA and course requirements, and stay in the same field.
• Student Life & Support

  Student Life & Support

  • What student support services do you offer?
    • Ivy Tech offers a ton of free support, including:

    - Academic advising and tutoring

    - Tech support and testing services

    - Disability services

    - Career Coaching

    - Mental health and basic needs support through IvyCares

    • Learn more about Student Support Services
  • Is there childcare available on campus?
    • Not all campuses have on-site childcare, but many offer childcare assistance or referrals. Check with your local campus to see what’s available.
  • Do you have disability services?
    • Yes! Ivy Tech has Disability Support Services to help you get the accommodations you need. 
    • Disability services support students with both visible and invisible disabilities, such as anxiety, ADHD, or chronic health conditions. 
    • These services ensure equal access to education by providing accommodations tailored to each individual's needs. You’ll just need to submit a request form and talk with a DSS coordinator.
  • Are there student organizations or activities?
    • Definitely. You can join student groups, take part in events, or even start your own club. Some campuses also offer leadership and volunteer opportunities.
  • Is there a career center to help with job placement?
    • Yes — through  Career Link Career Coaches, you can get help with resumes, job searches, internships, interviews, and more. There's also a job board called HireIvy.
  • Do you offer mental health services?
    • Yes! IvyCares is here to support your well-being and can connect you with mental health resources. Some campuses even offer free counseling, either in person or online. What’s available might vary depending on your campus, so it’s worth checking in.
• High School Students

  High School Students

  • Can I take dual credit courses while still in high school?
    • Yes! You can take dual credit classes at your high school — and earn college credit for free while meeting high school graduation requirements.
    • Things to know:

    - Classes are taught by your high school teachers

    - You’ll need qualifying test scores, GPA, or take Ivy Tech’s Knowledge Assessment

    - It’s a great way to save time and money on college

    • Apply for Dual Credit here
  • How does Early College work?
    • Ivy Tech’s Early College options let you start college while you're still in high school through:

    - Dual Credit – Take college courses at your high school

    - Dual Enrollment – Take Ivy Tech classes online or on campus

    • Some students even graduate high school having already finished the Indiana College Core or an associate degree.
  • Are there summer programs for high school students?
    • Yes! Ivy Tech offers summer programs that let high school students:

    - Join programs like the Healthcare Academy or Crossing the Finish Line

    - Explore careers and earn early college credit

• Adult Learners

  Adult Learners

  • Can I get credit for prior work experience?
    • Yes — Ivy Tech offers Credit for Prior Learning (PLA). You might get credit for what you already know through:

    - Work experience

    - Certifications or licenses

    - Military service

    - Volunteering or technical training

  • Do you offer accelerated programs for working adults?
    • Yes — Ivy Tech offers several fast-track options designed for busy adults.

    - Whether you're working full-time, raising a family, or both, there are programs that let you earn a certificate or degree quicker — often through evening classes, hybrid formats, or employer partnerships. Some programs let you finish a degree in under a year, while others are designed to fit around your work schedule with extra support along the way.

    • Learn more about accelerated programs
  • Are there specific support services for adult learners?
    • Yes. Ivy Tech offers:

    - IvyCares – help with food, housing, emergencies

    - Tutoring – free, in person or online

    - Career coaching & job prep

    - Tech help – laptop loans, hotspots

    - Disability services

    • Explore support options
  • How do I balance work, family, and school responsibilities?
    • Ivy Tech makes it doable with:

    - Flexible programs (evening, online, hybrid)

    - 8-week courses for focused learning

    - Support like IvyCares, and tutoring

    - Academic and career advisors to guide you

    • Start with a manageable course load, build a weekly routine, stay in touch with your advisor, and make sure to use support resources early — don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed.
• Skills/Workforce Training

  Skills/Workforce Training

  • Do you offer industry certification classes?
    • Yes, Ivy Tech provides short-term, non-credit skills training classes that prepare you for industry certifications in areas like healthcare, IT, manufacturing, logistics, and more.
    •  View upcoming classes
  • Are there short-term training options for quick entry into the workforce?
    • Absolutely! Ivy Tech offers short-term training programs that can help you gain the skills needed for quick entry into the workforce. These programs are designed to be flexible and accessible, catering to various industries and career paths.
    • View upcoming classes
  • Do you have relationships with local employers for internships or job opportunities?
    • Yes, Ivy Tech partners with local employers to provide students with internships, job shadowing, and work-and-learn experiences. These partnerships help students gain practical experience and connect with potential employers.  
  • Are apprenticeship programs available?
    • Yes — Ivy Tech partners with employers to offer paid apprenticeships that combine hands-on work with classroom learning. You'll earn a wage, build real skills, and finish with a nationally recognized credential.
    • Learn more about apprenticeships
  • Do you offer customized training classes for local businesses looking to upskill their workforce?
    • Yes, Ivy Tech collaborates with local businesses to develop customized training programs tailored to their specific needs. These programs aim to enhance employee skills in areas such as safety, leadership, IT, and more. 
    • Learn how custom training works. Plus, check out even more services we have for employers to connect with talent or skill up their talent.