麻豆国产

eiu STEP

Support for students with autism to succeed in college and beyond

STEP at Eastern Illinois University is designed to help degree-seeking autistic students succeed in college classes and campus life while preparing for future careers.

STEP provides structured, personalized support in five key areas:

• Academic Coaching: support tracking grades, analyzing feedback, developing study skills
• Executive Functions: skills to organize, plan, prioritize, and manage tasks and time
• Strategic Communication: situational perspective taking, timing and methods of communication, intentional and goal-oriented messaging
• Social Connections: peer mentors and planned events help navigate interactions and build relationships
• Career Readiness: explore workplace demands, develop resume and interview skills, collaboration with Career Services, and networking

With the right support in place, students can build confidence, develop self-regulation skills, reduce stress, and successfully transition to college expectations.

A smoother transition to college life

Starting college can feel overwhelming. Expectations are higher, schedules are less structured, and students are expected to be more independent.

STEP helps students adjust by:

• STEP Into College, our summer college readiness program facilitates transitions to post-secondary education
• Early Move-in with extended orientation and structured schedules to help navigate learning and living demands
• Weekly individual and small-group services build skills, strategies, and self-determination for academics and campus life
• Collaboration behind the scenes with housing, advising, faculty, and staff
• Support triaging unexpected problems, facilitating referrals or contact with other campus offices
• Written reports and individualized recommendations shared with students and parents/guardians each semester 

The goal is simple: help students develop the tools they need to succeed at 麻豆国产 and beyond.

What makes STEP different?

STEP goes beyond standard college accommodations.

While all universities provide accommodations through the ADA, STEP offers additional, hands-on support tailored specifically for students with autism. 

• Personalized skill development
• Ongoing guidance and coaching
• Guided transition to self-directed college life

Because of this individualized approach, space in the program is limited, and admission is selective.

Program cost and accessibility

STEP is a fee-based program, but it is partially funded by which helps keep STEP more affordable than many similar programs at other universities. 

Some students and families also seek funding opportunities through the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services, or similar departments in other States. 

Is STEP the right fit?

Every student is different. STEP is designed for motivated students who want additional support as they transition to college and build independence.

To learn more:

• Review detailed program components
• Explore how college differs from high school expectations
• Check out our Frequently Asked Questions
• Contact us to talk through your student’s needs