Indiana sets readiness steps for minors seeking equivalency credentials

A high school may ask the state board to include certain students in its graduation-rate calculation. This applies when at least 10% of a cohort of 100 students or fewer, or at least 5% of a larger cohort, left for parent-provided instruction and are not on track to graduate with that cohort. The school must show good cause, or the board must deny the request.

People under 18 may take part in the high school equivalency program if they meet the listed requirements. The chapter applies to people at least 18 years old and to younger people who meet these requirements. They must complete the Indiana Career Explorer program and a department-approved readiness assessment. They must also get a written recommendation from a parent, school leader or designee, or judge, as applicable. These provisions take effect July 1, 2026.

The high school equivalency pilot program chapter expires on June 30, 2028. This applies to the high school equivalency pilot program and the related graduation-rate calculation rule. For the graduation-rate calculation, students who move from a traditional high school to the pilot program are subtracted from the cohort unless they fail to complete the program within two years. The pilot program chapter and related provision expire June 30, 2028.