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Frequently Asked Questions



What comprehensive services are offered at CIP?

CIP is a year-round residential program which focuses on social, executive functioning, academic, career and life skills. Students either attend college courses or enroll in the Career Skills Training and Employment Program (C-STEP) program.

--> See our complete list of curriculum specifically for ASD and LD students


What are the criteria for admissions?

  • Documented diagnosis of a Learning Difference such as Asperger's syndrome, ADHD, high-functioning autism, nonverbal learning disorder, PDD-NOS and/or dyslexia
  • Low-average to high intelligence
  • Emotional, behavioral, and psychological stability
  • High level of motivation to meet program goals
  • Potential to live and attend college or career program independently
  • Ages typically 18 to 26 years old

    • --> More information on admissions


What testing needs to be included when I apply?

The evaluation we require in support of an application should include a WISC or WAIS with subtest interpretation, either a Woodcock Johnson or WIAT, and a thorough psychological evaluation/mental status examination that clearly expresses diagnoses and indicates any emotional and/or behavioral issues of which we should be aware in considering a young person for admission.


How long does a student usually attend?

On average, students attend CIP for 2 years. Students are required to attend for no less than 1 year.

--> More information on Levels of Support


How many students finish their degrees?

Many students leave CIP with their Associates, Bachelors and occasionally a Masters degree or a certificate through a specialized program in the area of their interest. Students who do not attend college participate in our Career Skills Training and Employment Program (C-STEP), with the intent on acquiring a paid job in their field of interest.


What types of internships are available?

CIP has relationships with local businesses which provide a wide selection of internships opportunities. A students special interest is pursued in the form of an internship with the intention of obtaining a job. Examples of internships include computer repair technician, florists assistant and landscape designer.


What social activities are available?

An average of five weekend activities per week, weekly student senate meetings, weekly Grill 'N' Chill potlucks, social mentoring, social thinking, community service and a yearly spring break trip. CIP students form a tight knit community and develop relationships that last a lifetime.


What is the student to staff ratio?

Average student to staff ratio is 1:1.


How much supervision is there?

CIP outings, such as weekend activities, are led by an experienced staff member. Students also have the freedom to plan their own weekend outings. Students have access to on-call support for emergencies and overnight staff that live close by. Incoming students have a curfew of 11 pm on weeknights and 1 am on weekends for the first semester.


Do students live in dorms?

The majority of students live in 2-bedroom apartments with 1 roommate. Apartments are at most a short walk to CIP offices and other student residences. All students pay for their utilities monthly and share cleaning and cooking responsibilities. Students enrolled in our Levels of Support 5-6 live in an off campus apartment or a dorm on campus.


What kind of therapeutic support is available?

Therapy offered at CIP is classified as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and is a light form of therapy used ongoing for "life maintenance". It is available to help our students deal with the anxiety, depression and lack of understanding that occurs within their ASD or LD diagnosis. It generally occurs 45 minutes per week or less.


Do students have to bring their own furniture?

All apartments are fully-furnished. Students should bring bedding, cooking utensils and dishes, bathmats and other personal items. Most beds are twin sized with extra long beds available. A TV and Internet access are provided.


Do students get breaks?

CIP is a year-round program which follows an academic calendar based on semesters. Since some students have jobs or internships that do not follow an academic calendar, students have the option of staying in their apartments during breaks with a staff member on-call for emergencies. CIP offices are closed throughout the year for major holidays and staff training and development.


What type of financial assistance is available?

While some parents/guardians can afford to send their student to CIP, many find the costs overwhelming and/or out-of-reach. However, there are a number of funding resources available.

    Insurance
  • Reimbursement for clinical services through your insurance company (ask for a statement)
    Banks
  • Private Bank Loans
  • Home Equity Loans
    Financial Aid
  • Available through colleges for full-time students
  • Student Educational Development Fund (SEDF) - Applicants must apply to CIP to then be eligible for financial aid from the SEDF. Funds are limited.

What is not included in tuition?

Room + Board and apartment utilities are not included in tuition. A one-year apartment lease is signed by the student on orientation day. Students also pay for their college classes and books. The C-STEP Career Program is an additional cost.

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interactive student schedule

A Week in the Life

View our new interactive weekly student schedule to get a glance at life at CIP. See the schedule