Empowering Students for Success
The Groups Scholars Program was created as a way to increase college attendance among first-generation, underrepresented students at Indiana University. The program provides academic, financial, and social support to help students earn a bachelor's degree at Indiana University South Bend.
Contact us at 574-520-5050 or sbgroups@iusb.edu
Why join the Groups Scholars program?
- Jump start pursuing your dreams by completing the 5-week course in Summer 2025. Use your financial aid, and we will cover the rest including your books. There is no cost for this 3-credit summer course.
- Complete a one-week bridge program (Kickoff) to get started for Fall 2025.
- Receive a $1000 scholarship for Summer 2025 for completing the course.
- Receive a scholarship of up to $500 per year (up to $250 every fall and spring) for as long as you stay in the program up to four years to cover your tuition and fees, together with your financial aid.
- New Groups Scholars will be considered for the Bloss-Halasi Family Scholarship in addition to the Groups Scholarship. Bloss Groups Scholars must meet all criteria for Groups and are selected based on financial need and GPA. Bloss Groups Scholars receive a minimum $1,500 scholarship annually which is renewable for up to 3 years provided they continue to maintain the renewal criteria. Recipients also receive a $1,400 one-time technology scholarship.
- Be part of a Groups Scholars cohort for the next four years.
- Enjoy the support of faculty, staff, and peer mentors dedicated to your success.
Becoming a Groups Scholar
You are eligible for the Groups Scholars program if you meet the following requirements:
- Resident of the state of Indiana
- U.S (United States) citizen or eligible non-citizen (permanent resident)
- Meet the income and eligibility guidelines listed below
- Must be an eligible 21st Century Scholar
- Minimum cumulative high school GPA of at least 2.5 with a Core 40 curriculum
- Demonstrate key personal characteristics, such as a positive attitude, a sense of civility, the ability to persevere, a strong motivation to succeed, an excellent attendance record, and a commitment to earn a college degree.
- Must file the 2024-2025 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Must file the 2025-2026 FAFSA by the priority deadline of April 15
Size of Family Unit | Family’s Annual Income MUST be Below |
1 | $35,000 |
2 | $45,000 |
3 | $55,000 |
4 | $65,000 |
5 | $75,000 |
6 | $85,000 |
7 | $95,000 |
8 | $105,000 |
Greater than 8 | Add $10,000 for each additional member |
How to Apply to the Groups Scholars Program
Thanks for your interest in being a part of the Groups Scholars Program. Start now for your opportunity to be a part of a program that puts students first and will be with you from the start of your application to graduation if accepted. If you are ready to start, use the following step-by-step instructions below to successfully complete your application to the Groups Scholars Program.
Application deadline for Academic Year 2025-2026 is March 31, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST
- Step 1: Complete your Admission Application to IU South Bend
Step 2: Complete your application to the Groups Scholars program
Step 3: Complete your FAFSA applications by the deadlines.
Need help? Contact us at 574-520-5050 or sbgroups@iusb.edu