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Groups Scholars Program

A path toward success

The Groups Scholars program provides academic, financial, and social support to first-generation students, and students who are members of underrepresented communities across the Indiana University system, including on the campus of Indiana University Kokomo.

Through this program, you’ll become more familiar with our campus environment and develop a social network and support system that will help to carry you through to commencement.

Myley Edwards, Groups 2025 cohort, shares about her experience in the Groups Scholars program: "I loved how much I learned! I also like how many opportunities it has given me like friendships, resources, and more. Groups is an amazing program offering students of all backgrounds the opportunity to prepare for college in a fun and close-knit community. I love this program and it has prepared me in way I wouldn't have gotten without it."

What’s in store for students?

Students who are accepted into the Groups Scholars program will take two courses during Summer Session II. Tuition and book fees for these courses will be covered upon a student’s acceptance into the Groups program. Groups Scholars will receive a FREE personal laptop, and up to $500 in scholarships towards Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 tuition.

Interactions and support do not end after the summer courses – it will continue to be provided by instructors, program directors, advisors, and your fellow Groups students until you graduate from IU Kokomo.

Academic obligations and expectations

If accepted into the IU Kokomo Groups program, students agree to:

  • Complete 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 FAFSA.
    • Completion of both applications is required for program admissions.
  • Attend Groups Scholars Induction on Tuesday, May 26th at 6 p.m.
    • Family and friends are encouraged to attend and celebrate their Scholar!
  • Attend New Student Orientation on Thursday, August 20th from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    • Groups Scholars will attend the Orientation program in place of the Thursday summer class meeting.
  • Enroll in two summer classes (total of 4 credit hours) at IU Kokomo.
  • Attend all required summer class meetings. Classes meet from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday beginning July 7th until August 20th.
    • Arriving on time and attending the full class period is expected. Any late arrival, early departures, or absences must be communicated to the instructor and Associate Director at least 24 hours in advance.
  • Enroll in a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester, maintaining regular attendance, engagement, and timely completion of assignments.
    • Regular attendance and participation will be reported in the Student Engagement Roster throughout each semester.
  • Maintain a mandatory minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.50.
    • The cumulative GPA is the average of coursework grades from IUK and all IU campuses, including courses completed during high school.
  • Complete two required meetings with assigned Peer Mentor each semester
    • One meeting is required in the first eight weeks of the semester, and one meeting is required in the second eight weeks of the semester.
  • Attend monthly Groups Scholars meetings on the third Thursday of each month at 3 pm.
    • Tentative dates for the Fall Semester meetings are below.
      • September 17th
      • October 15th
      • November 19th
      • December 10th (adjusted due to Finals Week)
  • Meet with your assigned academic advisor before advanced registration during the Fall and Spring semesters.
    • Visit the Student Appointment Scheduler to make an appointment with your advisor.
  • Abide by the Indiana University Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct.
  • Questions? Send an email to IUKgroup@iu.edu
  • Applications will be accepted until the program is full

Expand your horizons

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Groups Scholars at IU Kokomo - A Path Toward Success

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