Advanced Education and Training
Young adults tell us...
"I wish I had done better research on scholarships. I could have had smaller student loans if I had paid attention."
"I didn't know that I could have longer to take tests, or take fewer courses and still keep my financial aid, until I visited the Office of Disability Services."
"I was scared to leave high school, I didn't know what was next."
Education after high school
There are many opportunities to learn once high school is finished. Students who had an I.E.P. or 504 plan are potentially eligible for services and accommodations at colleges and universities. Go to the disability office at the college or university to learn more. If you used accommodations for testing or during high school having a copy of your I.E.P. can be helpful to the office of disability services at your new school. They are not required to follow your I.E.P. but it can give you, and them ideas for accommodations and modifications.
Finding college and trade programs
Special education rights, post-secondary education
Wright's Law on college and continuing education
Scholarships for youth with disabilities
Check with the college or university's financial aid, disability services, or diversity office to find scholarship opportunities.
National Center for Learning Disabilities: Scholarships and awards
Affordable College Resource Center: Scholarships for students with disabilities
25 Scholarships for those with mental health diagnosis or other disabilities
College Scholarships for Students with Disabilities
Scholarships for college and trade programs for those with Autism
Vocational rehabilitation
Some people want to go right to work after high school. Oregon's Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services are available to any Oregonian over the age of 16 with a disability who is having difficulty getting or keeping a job because of their disability. VR also provides training on opening a small business. Determining eligibility for VR is simple and quick.
Vocational Rehabilitation Website
Introductory Vocational Rehabilitation Video
Check out our Finding Work Page
Military service
Some special health needs are disqualifying for United States military service, but it is possible to get medical waivers for medical issues that have not needed medication since the age of 13. Two examples include asthma or ADHD. Expect the military to do a full examination of all medical records before granting a medical waiver.
Disclaimer
Inclusion of resources on our site does not imply endorsement nor does exclusion mean we do not think it is valuable. We work to keep our list of resources current and relevant but it is not exhaustive.
If you have any questions call or email us tel. 855-323-6744 (English) o 833-990-9930 (español) contact@oregonfamilytofamily.org
SSI working and going to school
When you Turn 18 your benefits from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) change as well. You will need to apply as an adult. There will be a re-determination process to see if you still qualify for SSI. There is a Youth Toolkit page on the SSI website. They have the following publications that might be useful for you.
- Qualifying for Benefit Continuation After You Turn 18 (if you are planning on staying enrolled in school or joining a jobs program)
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Apply for disability when you turn 18. You will use the adult forms.