Some Support • Ages 18-22 • Goal:
Transition to a Postsecondary Program
Action step 1.
Even out your skill sets.
Many people with autism have uneven skill sets. For example, you may have strong reading and math skills. But you may need time and support to develop other skills, like:
- Life skills, like shopping, meal planning, using transportation and time management
- Organization
- Self-regulation
To focus on building skills, you may want to:
- Live at home and commute to your program for classes or training.
- Take just a few classes.
- If you don’t have a high school diploma, get a general education diploma (GED).
Resources
Words to know
Action step 2.
Take another look at plans for after high school.
As you grow, your interests, skills and support needs may change. Plans you made a few years ago may not make as much sense now.
It’s smart to take a new look at plans, choices and decisions. And it’s OK to change them if that’s what’s best for you now.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 3.
Find out about student services at the program you choose.
Student services are different after high school. Programs after high school don’t have special education services or IEPs. Instead, you have to find out about student services on your own.
Contact the program’s student services office to find out about accommodations. Most programs provide accommodations like:
- Extended testing times
- Extended time for turning in assignments and papers
- Help with taking notes
- A single dorm room
Resources
Words to know
Action step 4.
Transition to a postsecondary program.
Before you can start a program, you may need documents like:
- A medical evaluation
- A recent IEP or 504 plan (within the last 3 years)
- Consent forms that allow the school or program to contact your parents
As you start your program, you may need additional support with things like time management, organization and self-care. Your needs may change over time. So review your supports often so you have what you need for success.
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.
