Student FAQ

Elevate is a 4-year certificate program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students are eligible to attend Elevate who meet these requirements: 

• Be a legal resident of the state of North Carolina
• Be at least 18 years of age at the time of admission
• Currently or have been eligible for Special Education services and entitled to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004.
• Must have a documented Intellectual Disability

The type of high school diploma would not disqualify someone who meets the listed eligibility criteria. 

Yes, North Carolina residency is a requirement to be eligible for Elevate.

You will need to submit at least one piece of documentation that includes an intellectual disability diagnosis. Documentation of an intellectual disability could include one or more of the following:

• IEP
• 504 plan
• Doctor’s evaluation
• IQ score

Students will receive academic credit in Elevate courses, and students will audit other NC State classes. They will take a minimum of 15 credit hours per semester. At the end of program completion (4 years), students will have completed a range of 101-117 credit hours. Additionally, students will receive an official transcript. 

Each program of study will be individualized and geared towards student’s career interests. At NC State we will have a focus on STEAM careers with additional pathways aligned to career interests.

There are many areas of focus that will be supportive in preparing for Elevate. Working on skills that facilitate independence such as managing your own schedule, following routines, and organizing and managing tasks will make the transition from high school to college easier. Additionally, developing self-advocacy skills will be important in college. Getting used to speaking up, whether it be asking for support or sharing your needs. Learning to advocate for yourself is a skill you will need in college when you have more responsibility for your learning and support. 

Each student’s schedule is unique to their academic courses, leisure preferences, and work schedule. Students will receive a weekly schedule which will help you stay organized and know where you need to be throughout each day.