Intensive Support • Ages 16-18 • Goal:
Choose a Program
Action step 1.
Look at local postsecondary programs.
Postsecondary programs include:
- Apprenticeships
- Community colleges
- Cooperative education
- Day habilitation
- Employment readiness training
- Four-year colleges and universities
- Gap-year programs
- Life skills or independent living programs
- Vocational education or trade school
Most communities have programs like these for students with and without disabilities. Look for programs with that have supports you need to help you meet your goals.
Resources
- From Autism Speaks about postsecondary education
- From the Autism Speaks Resource Guide about postsecondary education
- From Education USA about community college
- From the Gap Year Association about gap year programs
- From NPR about autistic students attending college
- From the U.S. Department of Labor on apprenticeships
Words to know
Action step 2.
Think about your personal preferences.
When looking at post-secondary programs, think about:
- How many students go there?
- How far is it from where you live?
- What kinds of supports are available?
Resources
Words to know
Action step 3.
Look at and apply for funding.
Now that you’ve got some program options, it’s time to find out about funding. Education programs can be expensive. But there are ways to help pay for some or all of it. Look into things like:
- Apprenticeships
- Government student loans, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Grants
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Vocational rehabilitation
Funding options may have different requirements. Keep a list of what you need for each kind of funding to help you decide what works best for you.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 4.
Make sure your evaluations are up to date.
If you need accommodations after high school, you need a current IEP, 504 plan or medical evaluation. Most postsecondary programs accept plans or evaluations that have been completed within the past three years.
If you need to schedule a medical evaluation, don’t wait! It can take months to get it scheduled, several days to complete and weeks to get results.
Resources
Words to know
You’ve reached the end of the action steps for this support level and age group.
- To find services and providers in your area, visit our Resource Guide.
- For direct contact with a member of our Autism Response Team, call 1-888-AUTISM2 (1-888-288-4762) or en Español 1-888-772-9050.
- Send an email to: help@autismspeaks.org.
