黑料社区

Inquiries & Consultations Welcome! 

If you are considering STEP services for your student and want to learn more, we encourage you to reach out. We are happy to answer questions and talk through your options.

Families often ask about:

• The differences between high school and college classes
• What a neurodivergent support program offers
• How STEP differs from standard academic accommodations
• What supports are available on campus
• How to know if a student is ready for the transition to college

We also welcome conversations about your student’s goals, concerns, and past experiences. You are welcome to contact us or visit at any time during the year.

Ways to Connect

Inquiries (Short Conversations)

You can contact us at any time by phone (at 217-581-6361), email (at step@eiu.edu), or by stopping in. These conversations are typically brief and are a good way to:

• Ask initial questions
• Share basic information about your student
• Learn about possible next steps

Consultations (Scheduled, In-Depth Meetings)

Consultations are longer, more detailed conversations and must be scheduled. These meetings:

• Last at least one hour
• Ideally include both the student and parent(s) or guardian(s)
• Help us better understand your student’s needs and readiness for college

It is helpful, but not required, to share educational records or evaluations before the meeting so we can provide more personalized feedback.

Consultations are required if your student plans to apply to STEP.

Note: Consultations are typically not scheduled in August due to staff training and student onboarding.

Meeting Options

Consultations can be:

• In person on campus
• Virtual (Zoom) for added flexibility

If you are visiting campus, you can also schedule a campus tour through the 黑料社区 Office on the same day.

About STEP

STEP focuses on helping students build:

• Self-regulation skills
• Executive functioning skills
• Communication strategies

Our goal is to support students in adjusting to college life and preparing for success beyond the university.

How to Contact Us

Phone: 217-581-6361
Email: mailto:step@eiu.edu

Applying to STEP

Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2026

Important Information

• STEP admits new students once per year, in the fall
• Students must apply to both:
  • 黑料社区(through 黑料社区)
  • STEP (separately)

Application Timeline

• Applications are accepted year-round
• The recommended time to apply is September through April before the fall start
• The program often fills by late March or early April

Application Requirements

1. Consultation
   A consultation is required before admission.
2. Possible Interview
   Some students may also be asked to complete an interview.
3. Documentation
   Please provide:
   1. Documentation of an autism diagnosis (medical or educational)
   2. A recent neuropsychological evaluation (within 2–3 years, if available)
   3. A recent IEP or 504 Plan (if applicable)

Documents can be uploaded, emailed, or mailed.

Forms to Complete

• STEP Application
• Parent/Guardian Questionnaire
• Student Questionnaire

Admission Decisions

• Space in STEP is limited
• Not all applicants will be admitted
• Decisions are based on overall fit with the program

Families will be notified by email once decisions are made.

If admitted, students and families must complete and return required agreement forms to confirm participation.

Some funding is provided in part by .