Autism Rates Are Rising…and Most Colleges and Universities Are Not Ready

Six Things You Should Know About Autism by Aurora University

In the United States, 1 in 54 people are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Students with autism in grades k-12 are protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, and provided with an IEP, or Individualized Education Program. However, at the collegiate level, students are no longer afforded an IEP. This, in turn, creates new and uncharted territory for students.

Autism spectrum disorder is considered a developmental condition. It is marked by challenges with social skills, nonverbal communication, repetitive behaviors, and speech; the severity and manner varies by individual. Additionally, anxiety, depression, difficulty with executive functioning tasks, and preference for routine are characteristics of ASD. Due to these challenges, most young people with ASD are less likely to enroll in college than their peers with other disabilities. One study found that a mere 34.7% of individuals with ASD attempt college within six years of finishing high school.

At the k-12 level, an IEP is revised annually, ahead of the upcoming school year. Once in college, the student must seek assistance on his or her own. Public institutions provide accommodations under the Title II of the ADA or Americans with Disabilities Act whereas private institutions provide accommodations under…