College Planning for Individuals with ASD

What can you do if your college age or soon to be college age child has autism and there are thoughts and ideas that college would be an appropriate next step?

Many college students with autism or Asperger’s have a difficult time navigating college life, keeping track of assignments, being away from home. They must become their own advocates, which is quite a change for them and sometimes a huge surprise and change for their families. In the long run, however, it helps all involved to grow. If you have a child with autism or Asperger’s who is considering college, it is a good idea to start planning well in advance. When dealing with ASD it is never too early to start planning for college. ASD individuals need extra time and help in college planning.


Here are some links that might be of some help.


professoradvice.com- College Planning for Students on the Autism Spectrum

ausitm.about.com- Going Through College with Autism: Hints and Tips

autism.about.com- College and Autism: How to Make It Work

bellaonline.com- College Planning and Workforce Preparation

ldonlilne.org- College Planning for Students with Learning Disabilities
Article on college planning including how to develop an appropriate IEP, skills needed in college, and questions to ask about support programs.

washington.edu- Preparing for College: An Online Tutorial
Information for college bound teens with a disability.

pacer.org- Postsecondary Education
Provides recommendations for college preparation and lists, publications, and resource link for parents and students with disabilities.

washington.edu- Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology
Provides mentoring and career information for students with disabilities and works to increase the number of college students with disabilities in internships and other work experience programs. Also includes resources for high education professionals.

ahead.org- Association of Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD)
AHEAD is the premiere professional association committed to full participation of persons with disabilities in postsecondary education.

transitioncoalition.org- Post Secondary Education
Helpful links to sites on postsecondary education, self-determination, transition, and independent living.

ahead.org-AHEADD (Achieving in Higher Education with Autism/Developmental Disabilities) is a private, community organization that provides support for students in higher education with Learning Disabilities, High-Functioning Autism (HFA), Asperger's Syndrome (AS), Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).

Unlike many other programs for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in higher education, the AHEADD Model can be applied within any campus environment and tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.



Study Skills

d.umn.edu- Study Strategies
Suggestions to help with study skills, time management, test-taking strategies, and note taking.

ucc.vt.edu- Study Skills Self Help Information
Study skills and self-help information includes time scheduling, note taking, proofreading, and writing papers.