The Groups Scholars Program was established to increase college access and success for first-generation students and those from low- and limited-income backgrounds at Indiana University Southeast. The program maximizes financial aid and offers Scholars academic, personal, and social support from admission through graduation and beyond.
Supporting students for success
What are the benefits for students?
The IU Southeast Groups Scholars Program offers four years of support and engagement on campus. Students benefit socially and academically by connecting with peers, staff, and faculty, creating lasting connections throughout their undergraduate journey.
Before starting freshman year, admitted Groups Scholars spend one week during the late summer term taking Motivation and Self-Management (COAS-S200). This helps them immerse in campus life and develop essential college skills.
Peer Coaches in each classroom provide support, encouragement, and guidance, making the transition to college smoother. Additionally, scholars meet with Success Coaches monthly to develop time-management, study, goal-setting, and social skills.
Tuition and book fees for the summer course are covered once students are accepted into the program.
2026 Summer Experience Course Information
August 10, 2026 to August 14, 2026
Motivation and Self-Management
In person Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Requirements for eligibility
In order to qualify for the Groups Scholars Program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Admitted first-year, full-time student
- Be a U.S (United States). citizen or eligible non-citizen (Has a green card)
- Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of at least 2.3
- Complete the minimum (34 hours) college preparatory courses (Core40)
- Must file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by the priority deadline of April 15
Personal characteristics also are an important part of being a Groups Scholar. We look for students who demonstrate 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.
Join the Groups Scholars Program
Complete the application in full to be considered for the Groups Scholars Program. You must also complete an application for IU Southeast admissions and receive your IU student ID number.
Academic expectations
Upon acceptance into the IU Southeast Groups Scholars program, students agree to the following four-year commitment of events:
- Complete FASFA forms by April 15.
- Meet with the Groups Scholars Coordinator prior to the Kick-off event.
- Attend the Groups Scholars Kick off on July 23rd, 2026.
- Attend all required summer class meetings: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Starting in the fall, meet monthly with a Success Coach.
- Maintain at least a 2.0 Grade Point Average (“C”) in the summer class and a cumulative GPA of 2.3.
- Meet with Academic Advising to schedule courses each semester.
Questions? Send an email to segroups@iu.edu.
Application deadline: Sunday, June 21, 2026
Acceptance emails will be sent out starting May 22, 2026
Contact us
For more information about the Groups Scholars Program, please reach out to us by email at segroups@iu.edu, or by contacting one of our Student Success Coaches, Jani Henderson 812-941-2309 or Richard Stettenbenz at 812-941-2085.