Student standards in guidance are a voluntary set of skills and knowledge. Indiana schools are encourage to adopt those standards and indicators that support the school's goals for student achievement and student choices as defined in the local school improvement plan.

Schools are encouraged to target specific standards and indicators that ALL students will master prior to leaving the school.

The Indiana Student Standards for Guidance include three standards:

1) Academic Development

2) Career Development

3) Citizenship Development

Each standard is subdivided into three "categories." These categories correspond with the nine national standards published by the American School Counselor Association. Each category is further divided into "indicators." Indicators state the specific knowledge and skills that all students should master.

By mastering the Indiana Student Standards for Guidance, students are more likely to become successful learners, productive workers, and responsible citizens.