Application Information

Admissions

We are excited about your interest in the Clark Inclusive Scholars Program (CISP) at BGSU Firelands! The program provides an inclusive two-year college experience for young adults with intellectual disability. Supporting BGSU’s commitment to create a campus environment of inclusivity where everyone can thrive, students will access authentic learning experiences through participation in college classes, employment, and campus activities.

Eligible Applicants to CISP

• are between the ages of 18 and 26
• have a documented intellectual developmental disability
• have completed a high school diploma
• were formerly eligible for special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
  
• had a good attendance and disciplinary record in secondary school
• are not able to benefit from enrollment in a traditional academic program at BGSU
• are personally motivated to develop self-advocacy, living, and work skills to live and work more independently
• are able to learn and follow BGSU Codes of Conduct and community norms of behavior
• have the capacity to navigate campus with minimal support following a period of training
• have or can arrange for reliable transportation to and from campus.

Application Process and Deadlines

We use a holistic application review process to assemble a diverse class of incoming students each year who we think will flourish at BGSU Firelands. The Program is limited to admitting 10 new students each year. It is, therefore, unlikely we will be unable to admit all applicants who meet eligibility criteria.

1. Applicants will be notified of whether they have been selected for an on-campus interview by email or phone and invited to participate in an on-campus interview with their parent(s)/guardian(s).
2. Students will be notified by an Acceptance Letter mailed to the student 2 weeks after the interview. CISP is limited to accepting ten new students to the Clark Inclusive Scholars Program each fall.
3. CISP staff will provide guidance to admitted students regarding completion of the University’s online application and the FAFSA for federal financial aid.

Application Materials

Students who submit the following application materials by April 1 are given priority for admission in the upcoming academic year.

1. Completed Clark Inclusive Scholars Program Application
2. Documentation of intellectual disability Documentation must demonstrate both that the applicant has an intellectual disability as defined by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD and that the applicant was formerly eligible to receive special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). A school record, such as an IEP, that includes both pieces of information would satisfy this requirement. If the school record does not specify that the applicant has an intellectual disability, additional documentation may include (a) an evaluation and diagnosis of an intellectual disability from a psychologist or other qualified professional, or (b) a record from a government agency (e.g., Social Security Administration, vocational rehabilitation) that identifies the intellectual disability
3. Most recent IEP from last year of high school
4. Transcript of high school coursework and transcripts from any college or postsecondary training program attended
5. Two Letters of Reference

Applications must include letters of reference from two non-family members who have known the applicant for at least one year. Include at least one reference from an educator (e.g., high school teacher, transition specialist). The second reference can be from an employer, coach, friend, neighbor, or any person who has a personal or professional relationship with the applicant. Please utilize the Reference Letter Form to complete this step.

CISP staff are available to answer questions and review documentation prior to application. To request assistance, please contact Kyle Closen, CISP Program Director, at kclosen@bgsu.edu 419-372-0613 or 419-433-5560. Campus visits and tours can be scheduled by appointment on the BGSU Firelands Admissions webpage.