College Classes Can Help Autistic Students Excel in Life

Considering attending college classes if you have autism? While college programs aren’t for everyone in general, in part due to a growing number of trades and vocations available without a college degree today, there are many good reasons for autistics to consider going to college.

Advantages of enrolling in college classes or special needs education programs available at a growing number of universities (although the number is still very low), include considering what you might like to do as a career and getting that first taste of independence.

If you’ve decided you might like to give college classes a try, choosing which college to go to is one of the most important decisions in your early adult life so it’s easy to feel anxious about it. Stressing out over college is a very normal thing for neurodiverse and neurotypical people alike, so don’t feel bad about.

Try to stay calm and think clearly, think about what kind of career you want, do some research about which college programs have the best options for that field, and look into if they accommodate neurodiverse individuals with either specialty special needs education programs. Specialty colleges for autism (often a college within a college), may offer additional assistance if and when you need it, which could be an important detail.

Of course, cost is a huge factor to consider when choosing colleges for autism. Depending on your family’s budget (as well as other factors like level of autism and support needs, transportation, and housing), not all colleges will meet your needs.

There are huge price tags between public and private universities, for starters. The good news is that in most areas, there are so many choices, ranging from online classes, two-year programs, and certificate options, as well as traditional four-year universities.

One thing that holds some people back from committing to attend college is not knowing what they want to major in. That’s perfectly ok.

Keep in mind you may want to change your major and that’s a completely normal thing, with reports ranging from 30 percent up to 80 percent of students swapping their choices. You may even want to transfer colleges if they don’t have a program in your new major.

Relax and think about this logically, but also listen to your gut. What does it tell you to do? Do what feels right, in collaboration with your parents and/or caregivers. if you can do that, you’ve made an important first decision.

RELATED: Autism After High School: Is College A Real Option?

The college search process can be incredibly overwhelming for any prospective student. But for those on the autism spectrum, it can present some unique challenges that may require additional careful thought and preparation for it to be a successful experience .

 As you research different college programs and weigh your options, here are some tips to help you find the best school fit:

Prioritize Campus Visits and Tours When Choosing College Programs

Virtual campus tours have made researching colleges easier than ever. But there is no replacement for actually spending time on campus to get a feel for the environment.

As an autistic student, take advantage of opportunities to schedule extended multi-day visits if possible. The longer you can spend immersing yourself in the campus and daily life, the better sense you’ll have of the culture.

Plan to take the free college tours of key locations like academic buildings, the student center, recreational facilities, and dining halls. But don’t just follow the scripted info session—take time to sit in on college classes, eat meals with students, wander the quads, and get a hands-on experience of spaces. Pay attention to how your senses react to factors like noise levels, crowdedness, light, and movement which could impact your comfort on campus.

Sensory sensitivities is a key consideration, and you want to make sure that your needs are met at a particular college. Try touring various size colleges, and know that each one will look and feel very differently.

If touring multiple colleges, take notes after each visit on your impressions. What did you enjoy or dislike about each? Did certain environments feel more overwhelming than others? Refer back to these when making comparisons.

RELATED: 10 Proven Techniques for Managing Autism and Sensory Issues

Connect with Disability Student Services When Reviewing Special Needs Education Programs

One of the most important stops on any college tour should be the office of Disability Student Services (sometimes called Disability Resources or Accessibility Services). This department can explain what accommodations and supports they offer students with autism. Are there quiet testing rooms, peer mentoring programs, or autism support groups? Do they assist with academic coaching, campus navigation, or arranging accommodations with professors?

Speaking extensively with DSS staff and current students using their services can provide invaluable insight about the resources available and the campus accessibility culture as a whole. A strong, well-funded office with robust offerings for autistic students is a major plus in any college search.

Evaluate the Broader Campus Culture When Considering Colleges for Autism

Every college has its own unique personality and vibe defined by the interests and values of its students. As someone on the spectrum, think about the type of campus culture where you would feel most comfortable.

Bigger universities with large class sizes and crowded stadium football games may present more overstimulating environments. You may prefer a smaller liberal arts college with an academic focus. Or a STEM-centric school where you can find peers who share your special interests.

Urban campuses immersed in bustling cities offer lots of activities, but can be quite noisy. Rural or suburban colleges provide more quiet green spaces. You may also want to research student clubs, events, diversity, Greek life, and how inclusive the campus is overall. The more aligns with your needs and interests, the better the culture fit.

Evaluate the Surrounding Community With Looking at College Programs

An important consideration that’s often overlooked is evaluating the broader surrounding community, not just the campus itself. This will be the environment where you live, take transit, access healthcare services, and engage in activities during your college years.

Research factors like access to public transportation, proximity to airports, availability of preferred food/shopping options, accessibility of healthcare providers, and volume of traffic and people.

If you have sensitivities to noise or crowds, a small college town may offer a more comfortable setting than a major urban area. Make sure to spend time exploring off-campus areas during visits as well.

You’ll also want to consider how easy it is to get home for holidays, and college breaks.

Consider Academic Accommodations with Special Needs Education Programs

In addition to disability services, take time when visiting colleges to meet with academic departments and advisors in your fields of interest. Discuss what types of classroom accommodations they’re able to provide students.

For example, can you record lectures to review material at your own pace? Are alternatives offered for public speaking presentations? This will depend on both general disability services and individual department policies. Reach out to current autistic students in your major as well.

Some key accommodations that may help autistic students succeed include:

• Copies of lecture notes or slides
• Extended time for tests
• Testing in quiet rooms
• Permission to record lectures
• Alternate assignments instead of public speaking
• Flexibility with attendance policies

The more you can learn about available academic accommodations, the better prepared you’ll be to arrange the supports you need.

Evaluate Housing and Dining Options When Considering College Programs

Since campus living and meals make up a big part of the student experience, make sure to research these services thoroughly. Start by connecting with the housing department about accommodation options for students with autism.

Can you request a single room or specific roommate? Are there quiet dorms available? Some colleges even have dedicated living-learning communities specifically for autistic students.

Similarly, explore the dining halls, meal plans, and if dietary accommodations can be arranged. Options like take-out meals, delivery, or preparing your own food may also be available. And don’t forget to consider off-campus housing and eating if you prefer to live independently.

Don’t Overlook Commuter Colleges When Considering College Classes

There is a great amount of appeal with attending a so-called commuter college. It is what I did, and I earned two associate degrees in the process (from two local colleges). I am able to drive, so drove myself to college classes, but then returned home afterward rather than staying in a dorm or university housing.

That’s what appealed to me vs others may want the whole college immersion experience.

For individuals considering trying college classes or are uncertain whether they want to pursue a degree or just want to learn a few things, enrolling in a local college has great appeal. It is also less expensive than a traditional university.

I was able to earn my first associate degree without cost, thanks to various scholarships as well a partnership with my school district. I attended a different local college for my second degree, and I had big plans in learning onsite and considering nearby apartments, but that was right when the pandemic hit and all my classes shifted to online.

While it wasn’t the experience I planned, I was able to earn a second degree and learn some new skills all the same.

Connect with Current Students When Considering Colleges for ASD Individuals

One of the best ways to understand what it’s truly like to attend a particular college is to connect directly with current autistic students. They can provide honest insights about every aspect of their experiences from applying for accommodations, to social life, to navigating administrative tasks.

You can start by reaching out to campus disability/autism student organizations to find peers willing to connect. Or ask the DSS office and academic departments to put you in contact with students comfortable sharing.

 Come prepared with specific questions about the academic, social, sensory, and organizational aspects of college life.

Speaking with autistic alumni can provide additional helpful long-term perspectives. They may even have recommendations for specific professors, majors, or campus resources. Even better, should you decide to attend college classes there, you already have a head-start on making friends.

Consider Your Sensory Needs and Any Co-Occurring Conditions

As someone on the autism spectrum, you likely have some degree of sensory sensitivities that should factor into your college decision. Make sure to evaluate sensory considerations like noise, crowds, light, smells, and other triggers unique to you.

Campuses in busy downtowns or near highways may present more challenges. Older buildings with fluorescent lights and large shared dorm bathrooms can also be overwhelming.

Look for colleges that offer accommodations like single rooms, noise-cancelling headphones, or the ability to leave classes when needed. Scheduling classes in smaller classrooms or with sympathetic professors can also help.

Ideally the college has some degree of sensory-friendly design, such as quiet study spaces. But also evaluate options for retreating to your room, commuting from home, or utilizing disability services when you need breaks from sensory input.

Research Specialized Support College Programs

Some colleges offer specialized programs tailored specifically for autistic students in areas like social skills, academic support, career preparation, and more. For example:

• College Jumpstart for pre-orientation summer transition programs
• Peer mentoring for campus navigation and social activities
• Weekly workshops on areas like time management, organization, interview skills
• Dedicated career prep for autistic students

These kinds of programs provide structured learning opportunities to gain skills critical for college success. Look for colleges investing resources into such offerings and talk to staff about how they can support your needs.

Often, these specialized programs, some of which may be certificate programs or non-degreed offerings, are more expensive. They can work well for individuals with some support needs and who want to experience college and independence in a nurturing environment.

Plan Campus Accommodation Meetings

All the advance planning in the world won’t eliminate the need to actively communicate your needs once enrolled on campus. Schedule meetings with key departments during your first week to establish accommodations and access support right away. These should include:

• Disability Student Services: Register formally as a student seeking accommodations. Review your documentation and discuss arrangements for the coming year.
• Housing: Request any accommodations related to dorms, meals, quiet hours.
• Academic advisors: Share your accommodation needs and discuss arranging these with each professor.
• Campus police: Ask about accommodations like sensory sensitive emergency protocols.
• Faculty in your classes: Introduce yourself and explain the accommodations you’ll require.

Don’t be afraid to advocate clearly for your needs. Most colleges want to help students with disabilities succeed. Being proactive from the start in asking for accommodations and support is crucial.

Realistically Evaluate Your Needed Level of Support

Colleges fall along a broad spectrum when it comes to the level of services and support they provide students with autism. Think honestly about what level of support you expect to need to thrive on campus. 

Be sure to ask trusted resources for their opinions based on personal observations, such as parents, teachers, siblings, friends, therapists, and more.

Some autistic students may do fine checking in just periodically with disability services. Others benefit from more extensive resources like daily coaching, social mentors, or counselors. Know your own requirements as you evaluate college programs.

Large public universities may have many disability support services, but more limited individualized attention. Small liberal arts colleges may provide more tailored guidance, but fewer autism-specific resources. Think about the right balance for your needs.

If you relied heavily on specialized services in high school, don’t assume you’ll become fully independent overnight in college. 

Be realistic about the assistance that will aid your transition. Some colleges even offer “step-up” programs where supports are gradually reduced over 4+ years as students become more self-reliant.

Consider bringing a parent, counselor, or autism advocate with you on campus visits to help determine if the available supports seem adequate. They may identify gaps or have suggestions for additional accommodations to request. Having their assessment can also help avoid choosing an environment with too little assistance.

RELATED: Exploring Myths and Realities of High Functioning Autism Symptoms

Research Social Opportunities

The social and relational aspects of college life are so important for personal growth and success. Yet these can often be the most challenging for autistic students. Look for colleges that offer ways for you to connect with peers based on shared interests.

Many have neurodiversity student organizations or autism social groups on campus. There may be game night events, movie clubs, or programs focused on hobbies like tech, sci-fi, anime, or crafts. Structured social activities in areas you already enjoy can make initiating friendships less intimidating.

Colleges with peer mentorship programs can also help you navigate the unwritten social rules of college. Having an experienced guide for things like making small talk, going to events, or eating in busy dining halls can build confidence.

Some autistic students also appreciate having a dedicated friend to attend campus activities with.

The more avenues available for you to develop meaningful social connections with fellow students, the happier your college experience will be.

RELATED: 8 Popular Ways to Manage and Master Autistic Social Awkwardness

Evaluate Greek Life Culture and Potential Fit

If you’re considering college programs with large Greek life presences, this warrants some additional consideration. Loud fraternity parties and crowded sorority rush events are often overstimulating environments for many autistic students.

However, there are now several Greek organizations specifically for neurodivergent students. See if colleges you’re researching have these alternatives.

Most schools also have diverse student club options beyond just Greek life. Find out about various social groups where you may find community, such as cultural organizations, special interest clubs, or activist groups. The point is not to avoid Greek life altogether—just to understand those aspects of campus culture and evaluate if the environment seems welcoming.

Plan for Transitions and Extreme Changes in Routine

The beginning and end of each semester involves many transitions as you move in, begin classes, change schedules, travel home, etc. For autistic students, planning ahead for these transitions can greatly reduce stress and uncertainty.

Anticipate needs like arranging early campus move-in, having extended time for orientation activities, scheduling breaks between classes, identifying quiet study areas, not overloading on courses, and allowing extra travel time.

Set up check-ins with disability services staff and academic advisors at the start of each term to confirm your accommodations are in place. Similarly, schedule wrap-up meetings at semester’s end to identify any changes needed. The more you can plan ahead for the ebb and flow of college terms, the smoother you can make those major transitions feel.

RELATED: Autism and Organization: The Secret to Finding Calm in the Chaos

Picking a college is difficult for any student, but particularly so for those on the autism spectrum. Taking careful time to research options, immerse yourself in campus life, and speak to current autistic students and staff can make finding the best fit much easier. Remember to choose the school and program (credit, non-credit, program specific, or general) that will allow you to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

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