IN SB0497

Creates an early graduation scholarship for Indiana students who complete high school requirements and graduate before grade 12, with the scholarship amount equal to the state foundation amount for tuition support in the year awarded

Requires students to be Indiana residents, attend a publicly supported school full-time for at least their last two semesters, and enroll at an approved Indiana postsecondary institution within five months of graduating

Scholarships are paid directly to the postsecondary institution and can be applied to tuition, fees, books, supplies, and required equipment, with unused balances carrying over to subsequent school years

Expands dual credit, dual enrollment, and early college programs to all secondary school grades rather than limiting participation to grades 11 and 12

Directs the State Board of Education to amend rules to facilitate graduation in less than seven semesters and authorizes temporary emergency rules through July 1, 2012