Changes in the Higher Education Act have made it possible for eligible students with intellectual disabilities to receive federal financial aid when they are attending an approved Comprehensive Transition Program or CTP, even if they do not have a regular high school diploma and are not matriculating towards a degree.

A CTP is an educational initiative designed to support students with exceptionalities as they transition from high school to post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. Our program aims to provide a holistic approach to assist students in acquiring the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to successfully navigate the transition to adulthood. This program will allow students to attend BRCC classes with peers that do not have a disability, but with additional supports. The ultimate goal of the CTP is to empower students to achieve their educational, vocational, and personal aspirations and promote their full participation in society as independent and productive individuals. 

 Who is eligible for financial aid given the changes to the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA)?

There are four criteria that must be met.

  • The student must have exited their high school. This means that students who are dually enrolled, or still receiving services from their high school, cannot receive financial aid.
  • The student has to have an intellectual disability as defined by the HEOA. The definition reads:
    • A student—
      • With a cognitive impairment, characterized by significant limitations in—
      • intellectual and cognitive functioning; and
      • adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills; and
      • Who is currently, or was formerly, eligible for a free appropriate public education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
  • The student and their family must demonstrate financial need via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) All students who wish to access financial aid must complete the FAFSA.(https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa).
  • The student must be attending an approved CTP. This means the college or university hosting the program has received approval from the Department of Education to offer financial aid to eligible students. A list of approved CTPs can be found here:Louisiana's Approved CTP

If you would like to be considered for PSE's APT program, please complete an interest form at: https://forms.gle/MK6jQ1DzoqAFJPcD9