Frequently Asked Questions for Questa’s Career Scholars Programs
Q: Do I need to be from Northeast Indiana to receive Questa Career Scholars funding?
A: No - students who are pursuing a degree at an accredited college or university in Indiana with a commitment to meet the work-back requirement of the funder are eligible to apply. The work-back commitment provides 100% debt forgiveness on Questa funds received during the college program. Graduates are encouraged to live in Northeast Indiana while working for the partner employer that provided the funding, but can reside outside of that area as long as they meet the work-back commitment (in the case of most Career Scholar programs).
Q: Are there minimum standards that must be met during the application process?
A: Career Scholars must meet the criteria outlined by each funder – this includes a minimum cumulative GPA, among other specific criteria determined by the funder. Additionally, Career Scholar programs require applicants are U.S. citizens or permanent residents due to the work-back commitment.
Q: Can I use AI tools to help prepare my application essays?
A. Questa encourages applicants to explore the use of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools, including ChatGPT, Grammarly, AI Essay Writer, AI Writer, Writesonic, and Essaygenius as a resource. These tools may be used to help with the initial outlining and drafting of application essays, but should NOT be used for the final essay itself. It is the applicant's responsibility to assess the validity and applicability of any GAI output that is generated.
We want to read your answers in your own words. Violation of this policy may result in a withdrawn application.
Q: How much will Questa Education Foundation lend to me through Career Scholars programs?
A: Maximum funding varies based on the Career Scholar program chosen. Funding information can be found on the Questa website.
Q: What degrees are eligible under the Career Scholars programs?
A: Each Career Scholar program funder determines the areas of need and required degree programs that are eligible for funding. Information about eligible degree programs can be found on the Questa website.
Q: The website states “employment not guaranteed” on Career Scholars programs – what happens if there are no jobs available at the partner employer when I’m ready to graduate?
A: If the partner employer does not have employment opportunities available at the time you graduate, then you can be considered for deferment on your loan payments or full forgiveness, depending on the situation. Employer partners forecast their hiring needs and base eligible academic programs for funding on the expectation that jobs will be available in those areas. However, if that situation changes, Questa will work with the Scholar to determine options that avoid payback on the loan funds taken.
Q: I am a current Questa Scholar, but I'd like to pursue a Career Scholars program; am I eligible to apply?
A: If you are a current Questa Scholar, you can move into a Career Scholars program. Funding is not guaranteed. Contact Questa if interested in this option.
Q: After graduation, how do I prove that I meet my employment commitment?
A: Annual proof of employment will be required in the form of a W-2 statement or pay stub identifying your employer.
Q: What if I do not graduate or meet the work-back commitment for the program?
A: You would be responsible for paying back the balance of your account. Repayment is typically structured over a 6-year payback period. Your loan repayment will include interest, which is set at the beginning of your program.