Apply

Apply

ACCESS Logo

Apply to the ACE Summer Camp Experience: 

ACE Summer Camp offers a three-day immersive experience for prospective students to explore life as an MSU ACCESS student. Hosted on Mississippi State University’s campus from June 4-6, 2025, campers will stay in on-campus residence halls, enjoy meals in the dining halls, and engage in a variety of activities that showcase student life. Attendees will explore campus and the Starkville community, play games, and connect with current staff and other campers. Open to applicants ages 17 and older, ACE Summer Camp is designed to give students with intellectual and developmental disabilities a firsthand look at the independence, learning, and fun that come with being part of the MSU ACCESS program.

Cost for the ACE Summer Camp Experience is $300. There is a $50 required application fee that can be mailed to ACCESS at PO Box 806 Mississippi State, MS 39762. 

Applications are open now through April 30, 2025. Space is limited to a maximum of 16 campers, so early applications are encouraged. 

Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/8F7nGaMAe3

 

 

ACCESS Program:

Applications for the Fall 2026 Cohort will be open from October 1- November 30, 2025. 

Application Information:

The ACCESS Program requires an application and interview process for admission.

  • The application window runs annually from October 1 – December 1 for admission the following fall semester.
  • Completed applications received during the application window are reviewed, and a select number of applicants are invited to campus for a full-day interview.
  • After interviews conclude, students are notified if they have been accepted into the program.
  • A $40 application fee is required.
  • All required documents must be uploaded to the application portal by December 1.
  • Please do not apply to the ACCESS Program through www.msstate.edu. Only apply using the link provided above.
  • More information about the ACCESS Program and application process can be found by clicking About ACCESS Program or calling 662-325-8375.

Required Application Materials

  • Most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
  • Psychological Educational Evaluation (no older than three years from the application date, must include an Intellectual Assessment (IQ) and Academic Achievement Assessment)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Student resumé
  • High school transcript
  • Certificate of completion or high school diploma
  • Additional Information Questionnaire (located within the application portal)
  • Current photo of student
  • Conservatorship/Guardianship documentation (if applicable)
  • Behavior Intervention Plan (if completed within the last three years, if applicable)

Not Required but Suggested

  • Adaptive Behavior Assessment Scores
  • A short video of the applicant explaining why they want to attend the ACCESS Program (can be emailed to access@msstate.edu)

Thank you for your interest in the ACCESS Program at Mississippi State University.

Eligibility for the ACCESS Program

To be eligible for admission to the ACCESS Program, applicants must have a mild intellectual and/or developmental disability that significantly impacts their academic performance, social development, and independent living skills. Graduates of the ACCESS Program receive a Certificate of Completion. Students who are eligible for the ACCESS Program are generally not eligible for admission to a degree program at a college or university.

Desired Applicants Display the Following:

  • Diagnosed with an intellectual and/or developmental disability.
  • Preferably between 18 and 26 years of age upon admission to the program.
  • Strong desire to live and work independently.
  • Functional reading and math skills (e.g., demonstrate comprehension of basic text, ability to apply basic math applications such as addition and subtraction, identification, and basic understanding of money, etc.).
  • Adequate communication skills to interact with others
  • Understanding of technology and electronic communications (e.g., usage of smartphones, text messaging, emailing, etc.).
  • Demonstrates independence, motivation, and stability with minor assistance.
  • Handles changes in routine and is flexible in fluctuating circumstances.
  • Follows the direction and guidance of those in authority.
  • Prior employment or volunteer experience preferred.
  • Independence in handling specialized dietary requirements, medical needs, medication, and hygiene (ACCESS Program staff will not manage, supervise, or administer medications).
  • Unified commitment from family to support the goals of the ACCESS Program.
  • Ability to navigate a daily routine (e.g., read and conceptualize time and dates, independently transition throughout the day, etc.)
  • Ability to self-manage when left unsupervised for an extended period of time.
  • Commitment to a four-year transition program.

Estimated Costs Per Semester

  • ACCESS Program Fees: $10,100
  • Housing: $4,466 - $4,865
  • University Courses (minimum of 3 hours per semester): $419 per credit hour
  • Meal Plan: $2,143+
  • Books: Subject to course requirements
Note: Tuition is subject to change. These estimates are accurate as of July 2024.

Cost of Attendance for Mississippi State University is available at: https://www.sfa.msstate.edu/cost