MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS & FAMILIES

Learn by doing—and set yourself up for success.

If you’re the type of person who likes learning through real-world, on-the-job experience, this could be the perfect way to launch a successful, rewarding career.

A new option to earn your high school diploma.

Earn and Learn at the Same Time

During your apprenticeship, you’ll take classes at school and learn new skills by working part-time at your employer’s location, all while getting paid for the work you’re doing. You’ll earn an Employment Honors Plus diploma seal, plus an INCAP Apprenticeship Program credential.

Give Yourself More Options for What’s Next

You’ll get career-relevant training and experiences based on your interests – helping you not only learn more about different careers but also become more qualified to actually do those jobs after graduation.

Get paid

What’s more, you’re getting paid during this on-the-job training and education. You’ll earn a high school diploma with an employment plus seal recognized by employers and colleges, so the choice of where to go next is entirely up to you.

Launch your career

How INCAP Will Work When It’s Available at Your School

Explore your interests

In middle school, you will identify your interests and explore careers, so when you start high school, you’ll be ready to decide if you’d like to participate in an apprenticeship.

Make a plan

Your school counselor will help you determine your high school schedule and get it finalized by the end of ninth grade, including planning for class requirements and the time needed at an employer’s site.

Activate your plan

Once you apply for and begin an apprenticeship program, you will spend at least three full days a week with your employer and the rest of your time at school.

WHAT IF I CHANGE MY MIND?

The structure of INCAP is flexible. INCAP credentials and degrees are recognized by both employers and colleges, so students can transition to the college pathway knowing they’ll receive credit for what they learned in their INCAP program. Or, if you want to start a job immediately after your apprenticeship program, you’ll have the skills you need for a career in an in-demand industry.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Interested in the new options available through INCAP? Please contact your school district for more information or to encourage them to participate.

To receive updates on INCAP, fill out this form.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does an apprenticeship program count toward my high school diploma and Indiana’s graduation requirements?

Yes, students who participate in the INCAP Apprenticeship Program will earn a high school diploma with an Employment Honors Plus Seal (assuming they meet all other requirements). Upon completion of the apprenticeship, they will receive an INCAP Apprenticeship Program credential.

Are apprenticeship programs paid?

Yes, employers are required to pay students participating in an INCAP apprenticeship program. The pay rate is determined by industry and is tailored to each occupation.

What options do students have after completing an apprenticeship program?

Students who complete the INCAP Apprenticeship Program will earn a high school diploma with the Employment Honors Plus Seal, as well as an INCAP Apprenticeship Program credential. They have several options for what comes next. The INCAP AP credential is recognized by employers and colleges, so students who want to transition to the college pathway receive credit for what they learned and may be able to complete a two- or four-year college degree in fewer years. Or, they can enter the workforce and launch a career, knowing they have the option to continue industry-led education and training within the INCAP Career Program.

Will students have time to participate in extracurricular activities and sports?

Yes, depending upon the occupation selected. Once a student has selected their preferred apprenticeship program occupation with this scheduling option, they will work with their school counselor to build a high school schedule around when they need to be at an employer site and what classes they need to take at school, while still allowing for participation in sports and other extracurricular activities.

Is the apprenticeship program year-round or only during the school year?

Students participate in the on-the-job portion of the INCAP Apprenticeship Program year-round, while classes only take place during a standard school year.

When and where can I apply for an apprenticeship program?

Employers will begin recruiting the first cohort of students in 2026 for apprenticeship programs that begin at the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Schools will have information about available apprenticeship programs and help match students with them.

However, to participate, students are required to be at their employer site for at least three days per week during the school year. This means it is critical to work with your school counselor well in advance to build your high school schedule around when you will be at an employer site and what classes you will need to take at school. We recommend starting to draft your schedule in the eighth grade so it is finalized by the end of ninth grade.

If you are interested in INCAP but your school is not yet participating, please contact your school district for more information or to encourage them to participate.