Financial Resources for Attending a Post-Secondary Program

While some parents/guardians can afford the costs associated with sending their student to specialized post-secondary program's like CIP, many find the costs overwhelming and/or out-of-reach.

However, there are a number of resources available that can significantly help reduce those costs, allowing your student with learning differences to have the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to attend college, develop a career and live independently.

Federal Government Assistance

• Tuition may be fully Tax Deductible as a medical expense on your Federal Income Tax (be sure to check with your tax advisor)
• Sallie Mae Payment Plans can spread out your payment equally over 12 months with no interest or finance charges
• Many students are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Insurance

• Reimbursement for clinical services through your insurance company (ask for a statement)

Scholarships

• Scholarships for students with Learning Differences
• Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation
• www.finaid.org
• Google Lime Scholarships
• Build a Bear Foundation
• Ford Foundation / Diversity Fellowship
• Epilepsy Foundation
• The Dyslexia Foundation
• Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
• AANE (Asperger's Association of New England)
• IECA (Independent Education Consultant Association) Foundation
• Additional scholarship opportunities (PDF)

Banks

• Private Bank Loans
• Home Equity Loans

Financial Aid

• Available through most colleges for full-time students

Public Funds

• Some school districts provide transitional funding for students to attend programs like CIP
• Regional Centers in California
• Other State Agencies: i.e.- Vocational Rehabilitation

Know of additional funding? Share your info in the comments!

Valuable Resource!

Download the Shopping For A Program Checklist. If you are shopping for a program for an autism spectrum or learning differenced student, fill out this comprehensive list to make sure you are asking the right questions.