About InclusiveU

Unlike many transition programs that operate separately from a college campus, InclusiveU allows students to become fully immersed in university life.

Students attend Syracuse University classes, join student organizations, participate in internships, attend athletic events, eat in the dining halls, live in residence halls, and build friendships with other Syracuse students. The program uses an individualized, person-centered planning approach so each student’s college experience is tailored to their interests, strengths, and future goals.

Academics & Career Development

Students in the Transition Program typically take one to three Syracuse University classes each semester while working toward a non-credit Syracuse University certificate.

Academic supports include:

• Person-centered planning
• Academic advising
• Course modifications and accommodations
• Executive functioning support
• Study skills
• Books and course materials
• Technology access
• Campus disability resources

Students also gain valuable work experience through internships and career preparation designed to help them transition into competitive employment after graduation.

Academic, Social & Residential Supports

One of the things that impressed us most about InclusiveU is the wide variety of individualized supports available while still encouraging independence.

Students may receive:

• Student Support Assistants who provide academic assistance, organization, executive functioning support, note-taking, studying, and help navigating campus.
• Peer2Peer Mentors, Syracuse University students who help InclusiveU students become part of campus life by attending clubs, sporting events, workouts, coffee runs, and other social activities together.
• Residential Mentors, who provide support within the residence halls and help students navigate independent living, problem-solving, routines, and adjusting to campus life.

Support levels are individualized based on each student’s needs, with some students eligible for up to 40 hours of academic support per week and residential supports when living on campus.

Campus Life

InclusiveU is built around the belief that students learn best by fully participating in the university community.

Students have opportunities to:

• Join student clubs and organizations
• Attend Syracuse athletic events
• Participate in campus traditions
• Volunteer in the community
• Build friendships with other Syracuse students
• Experience college life just like any other student

The Peer2Peer program plays a huge role in helping students develop meaningful social connections throughout their college experience.

Two-Year International Program

A feature that really stood out to us is InclusiveU’s Two-Year International Program.

This unique option allows students from outside the United States to attend Syracuse University while receiving individualized academic, residential, and social supports. Students participate in university classes, internships, extracurricular activities, and independent living while experiencing an inclusive American college education.

Financial Aid

InclusiveU is recognized as a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) by the federal government. Because of this designation, eligible students may qualify for federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA. Families should also review the program’s tuition, housing, mentor support, and scholarship information during the admissions process.

Campus Impressions

Although we weren’t able to tour the program itself because of the holiday, Syracuse University has a beautiful campus. The historic buildings, green spaces, and walkable layout made it easy to imagine what student life could be like here.

We’re hoping to come back someday when the program is in session so we can see InclusiveU in action.

Avery’s Thoughts

Even without a tour, it’s easy to understand why InclusiveU is considered one of the nation’s leaders in inclusive higher education.

If your goal is a true college experience where students are fully included in academics, campus life, internships, and residence halls—while still receiving individualized support—InclusiveU is definitely a program worth researching.

For families looking for a traditional university experience with strong academic, residential, and social supports, this should absolutely be on your transition program list.