This chart provides basic information about some of the inclusive higher education programs in Tennessee for students with intellectual disability. You will find admissions criteria, financial aid resources, and more! This document will help you guide the conversation about inclusive higher education for your student.
| Next Steps at Vanderbilt University | IDEAL Program at Lipscomb University | EDGE Program at Union University | Future Program at University of Tennessee | Access ETSU at East Tennessee State University | TigerLIFE Program at University of Memphis | |
| What are the types of financial aid accepted?
|
• Pell Grants and/or supplemental federal student aid• STEP UP Scholarship
• Vocational Rehabilitation monies for 4 semesters • TN Promise Scholarship • Tennessee Reconnect Grant |
· Pell Grants
· STEP UP scholarship · Vocational Rehabilitation monies · Private loans
|
• Pell Grants• Step UP Scholarship
• Vocational Rehabilitation monies • TN Promise Scholarship • WIOA monies • Private scholarships
|
• Federal Financial Aid/Pell Grants• STEP UP Scholarship
• Vocational Rehabilitation monies • TN Promise Scholarship • UT Promise Scholarship |
• STEP UP Scholarship
• Vocational Rehabilitation monies for 4 semesters • ECF Individual Education and Training Services Reimbursement • Haley Elise Van Pelt Scholarship • Private scholarships and loans |
• Pell Grants
• Step UP Scholarship • Vocational Rehabilitation monies |
| How long is your program? | Four-year program | Two-year program with optional third year | Two-year program with optional third year | Two-to-three-year program | Two year program | Two year program |
| What certificate do students earn at graduation? | Career and Community Studies Certificate | University Certificate of Career Exploration Studies | Certificate of Completion | Vocational Certificate | Program Certificate | Career and Community Studies Completion Award |
| Is your program residential or non-residential? | Non-residential | Residential | Residential | Non-residential first year with residential options for returning students | Non-residential | Non-residential |
| What disability diagnoses would make a student eligible for your program? | The program is for students with intellectual disability. Applicants may have other disability diagnoses like autism or functional delay but must also have ID. | The program is for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. | The program is for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. | The program is for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. | The program is for students with intellectual disability. | The program is for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. |
| What are your admissions criteria?
|
The applicant must:
• Have a documented intellectual disability • Be between the ages of 18 and 26 • Have successfully completed high school and received one of the four TN diplomas • Received or was eligible for services under IDEA • Express a strong personal desire to attend college • Be excited to become better prepared for the world of work and a future career • Demonstrate both the need and desire for greater independence • Be able to learn to navigate the college campus on their own • Be able to communicate reliably with others and exhibit socially responsible behavior on campus • Have satisfactory record of school attendance from their previous school • Have an open case with VR • Attend Next Steps Summer Institute |
The applicant must:
• Be between the ages of 18 and 26 • Have completed high school • Not qualify for college as a traditional student • Have an intellectual disability |
The applicant must:
• Be between the ages of 18 and 26 when program begins • Have a documented intellectual and/or developmental disability • Demonstrate basic literacy in reading and writing • Have the capacity to handle and adapt to change with supports • Demonstrate the ability to accept and follow reasonable rules and behave respectfully toward others • Demonstrate the desire to attend the program and adhere to program policies regarding attendance and participation in coursework and required activities • Have the potential to successfully achieve their goals within the context of the Union EDGE program’s content and setting • Be able to sit through 90-minute courses • Function independently for 2-hour time blocks • Have an open case with VR • Attend Union Edge Summer Beginnings Program |
The applicant must:
• Be between the ages of 18 and 29 at program start • Have proof of eligibility for IDEA or 504 accommodations while in school • Have a high school diploma in any of the TN diploma pathways • Have no severe behavior or emotional problems • Actively participate in application and interview • Have medical insurance • Be able to function independently for a sustained period of time • Be able to change supports and schedules without being overly stressed • Have the ability to be successful in competitive employment • Have a fourth grade reading level or higher (may be considered for conditional admission if lower) • Have a basic math understanding • Desire and be motivated to complete the program • Demonstrate ability to communicate with staff, faculty, and mentors |
The applicant must:
• Have an intellectual disability • Be between the ages of 18 and 28 • Have a personal desire to continue their education at the university level • Want to expand their employment prospects |
The applicant must:
• Be between the ages of 18 and 29 at the start of the program • Have a documented developmental or intellectual disability • Demonstrate a 3rd grade reading level (may be considered for conditional admission if lower) • Be able to function independently for at least 2 hours • Independently maintain personal needs, including managing diet and medical needs • Be able to communicate with others • Be willing to follow reasonable rules and instructions • Have sufficient emotional stability to participate in all aspects of TigerLIFE • Have transportation to and from campus • Demonstrate the desire to attend TigerLIFE and adhere to attendance and coursework participation policies • Have the desire to be gainfully employed • Be able to walk 2-4 miles each day or provide mobility assistance • Not demonstrate physical aggression or violence |
