New / Prospective Students

Students are admitted to the program for the fall semester. Applications for the 2025/26 academic year will be accepted and reviewed beginning November 1, 2024. Applicants are encouraged to tour the campus and participate in an open house or information session prior to submitting an application. Applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. Career Studies Program Staff will acknowledge receipt of the initial application. 

  • Upon receipt of a completed application (including application, 3 recommendations, most recent IEP and evaluation report), an in-person interview will be conducted.
  • After the in-person interview, an on-campus ½ day interview will be scheduled in which the student will come to campus to participate in parts of the program. This portion does not include a parent or guardian.
  • The IEP and reevaluation report must document the Intellectual Disability or developmental delay that is a requirement for admission. 
  • Application deadline for the 2025/26 academic year is March 31, 2025.
  • Note: Participation in the interview process does not guarantee admission to the Career Studies Program.

Prospective student applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for admission:

  • Have a documented diagnosis of an intellectual disability or other developmental disability as defined by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
  • Be at least 18 years old before August 31st of the academic admission year and hold a GED, Diploma or Certificate of Completion.
  • Have basic safety skills in unsupervised settings.
  • Have support from family and a personal desire to work on skills related to self-determination.
  • Be able to navigate the Penn State Harrisburg campus. 
  • Have submitted a complete application as outlined on the website.
  • Have contacted the County Office of Intellectual Disability (ID), if waiver eligible, and taken steps to open a file with the district Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR).
  • Must submit a complete FAFSA Application by May 1 of the application year. For additional information, please see admission requirements.
  • Must have participated in an Career Studies Information Session (held in November and March of each year).

Students who are currently enrolled in a secondary school may apply, provided they meet the age requirement and currently have a transition plan, within the IEP, that supports their enrollment in the Career Studies program and the recommendation of their school district or charter school to apply to the program. See Program Information.