Admissions Criteria

Shepherds College serves individuals with intellectual disabilities such as significant learning, cognitive, and developmental conditions, whose disability impacts their ability to access course content without a system of educational supports and services.

In order to be admitted to Shepherds College, an individual must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age by the start of the school year.
  • Meet eligibility guidelines established by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) on intellectual disability:
    • A person scores approximately two standard deviations below the mean of any standardized IQ test.
    • Limitations in adaptive behavior skills including conceptual, social, and practical skills that impact activities of daily living.
    • Evidence that the disability was present before the age of 18.
  • Have completed his or her Individualized Education Plan and received a high school diploma, certificate of completion or equivalent.
  • Read at a third-grade level or above.
  • Ability to solve math problems at a third-grade level or above.
  • Demonstrate the ability to get along well with others.
  • Be free of self-injurious behaviors and behaviors harmful to others.

We would like your child to attend Shepherds College in order to learn and gain Appropriate Independence™. If you aren't sure if your child will qualify, please call the Admissions staff. You can reach them at 262.878.6351. We can learn more about your son or daughter as well as answer any additional questions you may have.