Apply
ACCESS:
Application Link:
Application Information:
- ACCESS requires an application and interview process for admission.
- Our application window runs annually from October 1-December 1 for admission for 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 for admission into the program
- A $40 application fee is required
- All required documents to complete the application process need to be uploaded to the application portal by December 1st
- Please do NOT apply to ACCESS at www.msstate.edu (only apply through the link provided on the first bullet listed above)
- You can find more information about the program and application process by clicking About ACCESS or calling 662.325.8375
Required Application Materials:
- Most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
- Psychological Educational Evaluation (No Older than 3 years From the Application Date) The Psychological Educational Evaluation 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 (If Applicable)
- Behavior Intervention Plan Done Within the Last 3 Years(If Applicable)
Not required but Suggested:
- Adaptive Behavior Assessment Scores
- Video About the Applicant With Them Telling the Staff Why They Would Like to Come to ACCESS (This Can be Emailed to access@msstate.edu)
Thank you for your interest in ACCESS at Mississippi State University!
Those eligible to apply for admission to ACCESS must have a mild intellectual and/or developmental disability that significantly interferes with their academic performance, social development, and independent living skills. ACCESS graduates receive a Certificate of Completion. Students who are eligible for ACCESS are generally not eligible for admission to a degree program from 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 smartphone, text messaging, emailing, etc.)
- Demonstrates independence, motivation, and stability with minor assistance
- Handles changes in routine, flexible in fluctuating circumstances
- Follows direction and guidance of those in authority
- Prior employment or volunteer experience preferable
- Independence in handling specialized dietary requirements, medical needs, medication, and hygiene (ACCESS staff will not manage, supervise, or administer medications)
- Unified commitment from family to support goals of ACCESS
- Navigate a daily routine (read and conceptualize time and dates, independently transition throughout day, etc.)
- Ability to self-manage when left unsupervised for an extended period of time
- Commitment to a 4-year transition program
Estimated Costs Per Semester:
- ACCESS Program Fees= $10,000
- Housing = $2,611-$4,564
- University Courses (min. of 3 hours/semester) = $409/credit hour
- Meal Plan = $2,129-$2,293
- Books = Subject to course requirements
Tuition is subject to change. These estimates are accurate as of July 2023.
Cost of Attendance for Mississippi State University is available at https://www.sfa.msstate.edu/cost.